Easy Plum Cake

Indulge in Simplicity with Easy Plum Cake

Dive into the delightful world of homemade desserts with this Easy Plum Cake recipe. Bursting with the sweet-tart flavor of juicy Italian plums and infused with warm cinnamon, this cake is a celebration of simplicity and seasonal bounty. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is guaranteed to impress with its delicious flavor and effortless preparation. So grab your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s bake up a treat that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

Produce:

  • 12 Italian plums, medium

Refrigerated:

  • 2 Eggs, large

Baking & Spices:

  • 1 cup All-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp Baking powder
  • 1 1/2 tbsp Cinnamon sugar (for topping)
  • 1 pinch Salt
  • 3/4 cup White sugar

Dairy:

  • 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, softened

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Prepare Plums: Wash the Italian plums, then pit and slice them into thin wedges. Set aside.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
  4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and white sugar until light and fluffy.
  5. Add Eggs: Beat the eggs into the butter and sugar mixture, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
  6. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
  7. Layer Batter and Plums: Spread the cake batter evenly into the prepared cake pan. Arrange the plum slices in a single layer on top of the batter, slightly overlapping each other.
  8. Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar evenly over the plum slices, adding a touch of sweetness and spice.
  9. Bake: Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  10. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve the cake warm or at room temperature, optionally with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Plum Varieties: While Italian plums are recommended for their sweet-tart flavor and firm texture, you can also use other varieties of plums such as Santa Rosa or Black Beauty. Adjust the sweetness of the cake accordingly based on the natural sweetness of the plums.
  • Enhance with Almonds: For added texture and flavor, sprinkle slivered almonds or almond flakes over the top of the cake before baking. The nuttiness of the almonds pairs beautifully with the sweet plums.
  • Drizzle with Glaze: For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled cake. This adds a glossy finish and a burst of citrus flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use other fruits instead of plums? A: Yes, you can substitute plums with other stone fruits such as peaches, nectarines, or apricots. Adjust the baking time and sweetness of the cake accordingly based on the juiciness and sweetness of the fruit.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, you can bake the cake ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or enjoy them cold.

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour for a healthier version? A: Absolutely! You can substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier and more nutritious cake. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly denser with whole wheat flour.

Q: Can I freeze leftover cake? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover cake slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature before reheating or serving.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, you can adapt this recipe to suit your dietary needs:

  • Almond Flour: Substitute almond flour for the all-purpose flour to reduce the carb content of the cake. Almond flour adds a nutty flavor and a moist texture to the cake.
  • Sugar Substitute: Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of white sugar. Adjust the sweetness to taste, as some sweeteners may have a stronger flavor than sugar.
  • Low-Carb Topping: Instead of cinnamon sugar, sprinkle the cake with a blend of cinnamon and a keto-friendly sweetener for a low-carb alternative.

With its tender crumb, juicy plums, and hint of cinnamon spice, Easy Plum Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer. Whether enjoyed as a sweet treat with afternoon tea or as a comforting dessert after dinner, this cake is sure to satisfy your cravings and brighten your day. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s the perfect recipe for both beginner and experienced bakers alike. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of homemade goodness? You’ll be glad you did!