Easy Plum Cake Recipe: A Delicious Seasonal Treat

4 min read

Looking for a simple yet impressive dessert? This easy plum cake recipe is the perfect solution. With its moist crumb and juicy fruit topping, it’s an ideal way to showcase ripe plums while satisfying your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into this seasonal favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

 

Easy Plum Cake

This easy plum cake features a tender butter cake base topped with fresh plum slices. It takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to bake. The result is a beautiful, rustic dessert that’s perfect for late summer and early fall.

A Brief History

Plum cakes have been enjoyed for centuries, with variations found in many European cuisines. The German Zwetschgenkuchen (plum cake) is particularly well-known and may have inspired many modern versions. Today, plum cakes are popular worldwide as a way to celebrate the fruit’s short season1.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
  • 4-5 ripe plums, pitted and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar (for topping)

Substitutions and Variations

  • For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
  • Replace plums with other stone fruits like peaches or apricots
  • Add 1/2 teaspoon almond extract for extra flavor
  • Sprinkle sliced almonds on top before baking for added crunch

Instructions

Preparation

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Making the Batter

  1. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
  3. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.

Assembling and Baking

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
  2. Arrange plum slices on top of the batter in a circular pattern.
  3. Sprinkle turbinado sugar over the plums.
  4. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  5. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing the sides of the springform pan.

Time and Servings

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 8-10 slices

Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 10 servings)

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 11g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 1g

Expert Tips

  1. Choose plums that are ripe but still firm for the best texture and flavor2.
  2. For a caramelized top, broil the cake for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking (watch carefully to prevent burning).
  3. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra-indulgent dessert.
  4. To make ahead, bake the cake and store at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned plums instead of fresh?

While fresh plums are ideal, you can use canned plums in a pinch. Drain them well and pat dry before using to prevent excess moisture in the cake.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done 3.

Can I freeze this plum cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

What type of plums work best for this recipe?

Any variety of plums will work, but Italian prune plums or red plums are particularly good choices for their balance of sweetness and tartness.

Conclusion

This easy plum cake is a delightful way to enjoy the bounty of late summer and early fall. Its simplicity and rustic charm make it perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions. Why not try it with different seasonal fruits throughout the year? For more stone fruit desserts, check out our peach cobbler or apricot tart recipes.

Desserts