Introduction
If you’re looking for a simple yet delightful dessert that’s both moist and full of flavor, this Easy Plum Cake Recipe is just what you need. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe is perfect for creating a deliciously soft cake that’s bursting with the fresh, juicy flavors of ripe plums. This cake is ideal for breakfast, a light snack, or a sweet treat for coffee time. With a balance of sweetness and a slight tang from the plums, this cake is sure to impress your friends and family. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up in under an hour, making it a go-to dessert for any occasion.
In this article, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, ensuring you have all the tips and tricks to bake the perfect plum cake. From ingredient measurements to baking tips, this guide covers it all.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Plum Cake Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses everyday pantry ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and baking powder.
- Quick to Prepare: With just a little prep work and baking time, you’ll have a dessert ready to go in under an hour.
- Versatile: You can easily substitute other stone fruits like apricots, figs, or even dried fruits like raisins for a unique twist.
- Moist and Tender: The combination of butter, yogurt, and juicy plums creates a cake that’s moist and tender with every bite.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Whether you’re serving this for a casual brunch, afternoon tea, or as a dessert for a family gathering, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for the Easy Plum Cake Recipe
Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe. For a standard-sized cake, these are the quantities you’ll need:
Dry Ingredients:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or unbleached flour)
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional for extra spice)
¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature (or melted butter)
1 cup granulated sugar (or ½ cup caster sugar + ½ cup brown sugar)
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⅓ cup plain yogurt (or sour cream for added richness)
Zest of 1 lemon for a bright flavor
For the Plums:
4-5 fresh plums, sliced thinly (can also use dried plums or apricots if desired)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (to toss with the plums)
Optional Toppings:
2 tablespoons brown sugar for sprinkling on top
1 tablespoon almond slices or chopped nuts for extra texture
A pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a spiced topping
Step-by-Step Instructions to Bake Your Plum Cake
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to get baking! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious, fluffy plum cake in no time.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square cake pan with butter or oil, and lightly dust it with flour to prevent the cake from sticking.
Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process is expected to require approximately 2 to 3 minutes at a moderate speed. The mixture should turn pale and creamy, ensuring a soft cake texture.
Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Incorporate the eggs individually, ensuring thorough mixing after each one is added. Add the vanilla extract and lemon zest, and continue to mix until combined.
Add the Yogurt (or Sour Cream)
Add the yogurt (or sour cream) to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth. The yogurt helps keep the cake extra moist, making it soft and tender with every bite.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three batches, mixing gently between each addition. Be careful not to overmix—stir until just combined to avoid a dense cake texture.
Prepare the Plums
Slice the fresh plums thinly and toss them in a bowl with lemon juice. This will enhance their flavor and prevent them from browning.
Pour the Batter into the Pan
Pour the cake batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Gently arrange the sliced plums on top of the batter in a circular or layered pattern, pressing them lightly into the batter.
Add Optional Toppings
For an added crunch and flavor, sprinkle brown sugar, almond slices, and a pinch of cinnamon on top of the plums. This creates a sweet and slightly spiced topping as the cake bakes.
Bake the Cake
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the cake should feel springy to the touch.
Cool and Serve
Once the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Subsequently, place the cake onto a wire rack to allow it to cool entirely. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, either on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Plum Cake
- Use Fresh, Ripe Plums: For the best flavor and texture, make sure your plums are ripe but firm. If they’re too soft, they may release too much juice and make the cake soggy.
- Substitute with Other Fruits: If plums aren’t in season, this cake works beautifully with other stone fruits like apricots, peaches, or figs. You can also use dried fruits like raisins or dried apricots for a more intense flavor.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, butter, and yogurt are all at room temperature. This helps the ingredients blend more smoothly and ensures an even cake texture.
- Avoid Overmixing: Excessive mixing of the batter may result in a cake that is tough and dense. Mix the dry ingredients just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Test for Doneness: Always check the cake a few minutes before the end of the suggested baking time. Ovens can vary, so insert a toothpick into the center to make sure it comes out clean.
Serving Suggestions
This easy plum cake recipe is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with other sides and toppings. Below are several recommendations for serving that can elevate your cake experience.
- Whipped Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a spoonful of tangy Greek yogurt provides a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a slice of cake with a scoop of vanilla or almond-flavored ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Dusting of Powdered Sugar: For a simple, elegant presentation, dust the top of the cooled cake with powdered sugar before serving.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Storing: This plum cake can be stored at room temperature, covered, for up to 3 days. If you live in a warmer climate, it’s best to store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
- Freezing: To freeze the cake, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw the slices at room temperature or microwave them for 20-30 seconds to enjoy a quick snack.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Plum Cake Recipe is a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist, tender crumb and fresh plum topping, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a dessert after dinner, this plum cake will quickly become a favorite in your household.
The combination of basic pantry ingredients and juicy, fresh plums makes this cake a perfect summer treat, but it’s just as enjoyable year-round. Plus, with the option to substitute fruits, you can make this recipe your own. So, next time you have some ripe plums on hand, give this simple recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Happy Baking!
