traditional plum cake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
traditional plum cake recipe
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The Best traditional plum cake recipe

I’ve always been fascinated by traditional plum cake recipes, and I’m excited to share my favorite one with you. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and it’s a staple in many households, especially during the holidays.

The first time I made this cake, I was blown away by its simplicity and the depth of flavors it offered. The combination of sweet and tart plums, paired with the richness of butter and sugar, created a truly unforgettable taste experience.

As I continued to experiment with this recipe, I realized that it’s not just a dessert, but an experience that brings people together. Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual dinner with friends, this plum cake is sure to be a hit.

One of the key techniques that make this recipe stand out is the way it uses browned butter to add a nutty flavor to the cake. It’s a game-changer, trust me!

The smell of browned butter wafting from the oven is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. And when you take your first bite, the combination of textures – crunchy from the chopped nuts, moist from the plums, and crumbly from the cake – is absolute perfection.

Traditional Plum Cake

Traditional Plum Cake

4.6 from 953 votes

A classic European-style plum cake featuring juicy plums nestled in a tender, buttery batter. This rustic dessert is perfect for showcasing ripe summer fruit with a lightly spiced crumb topping.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake Batter

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk

For the Plums

6-8 ripe plums, pitted and sliced into wedges
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon

For the Topping

1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cubed

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
3In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4Set aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
5In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
6Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
7Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour.
8Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix the batter.
9Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
10Arrange the plum wedges in a single layer over the batter, pressing them gently into the surface.
11In a small bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the plums.
12This will create a sweet, spiced glaze as the cake bakes.
13For the crumb topping, mix the flour and sugar in a small bowl, then cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
14Sprinkle the crumb topping over the plums.
15Bake the cake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
16If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover the cake with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
17Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
18Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream.

🔧Equipment

9-inch round or springform cake pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula
Cooling rack
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 180mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 28g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

For the best flavor, use ripe but firm plums that hold their shape during baking. If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the sugar in the batter to 1/2 cup. This cake is best enjoyed the day it is made but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Watch Video Of How Traditional Plum Cake Works

This traditional plum cake is a wonderful recipe to have in your collection. It stores beautifully, so you can bake it days ahead and it only gets better with time. To keep it moist, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container.

If you have leftovers, you can gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or toast them lightly for a warm treat. For serving, I love to dust the top with powdered sugar or serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a versatile dessert for any gathering.

Whether it is for a holiday party, a birthday, or just a Sunday family dinner, this cake always brings people together. The rich flavors and comforting texture make it a crowd-pleaser, and I have never had a slice go uneaten. I hope you try this recipe and create your own wonderful memories with it.

Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Plum Cake

1. What type of plums should I use for this recipe?

For this traditional plum cake recipe, you’ll want to use a combination of sweet and tart plums. Some popular varieties include Italian prunes, Greengage, or even a mix of fresh and dried plums.

2. Can I substitute other types of fruit for the plums?

While plums are a key ingredient in this recipe, you can experiment with other fruits like cherries or apricots. Just keep in mind that their sweetness levels may affect the overall flavor profile.

3. How do I ensure my plum cake is evenly baked?

To achieve an evenly baked plum cake, make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature (350°F), and use a reliable baking time guide.

4. Can I make this recipe in advance?

This plum cake recipe can be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature for up to three days or frozen for up to two months.

5. What’s the best way to store leftover plum cake?

Store leftover plum cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.

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