This quick and delightful Grandma’s 8-Spoon Plum Cake is perfect for anyone who loves a homemade treat without the hassle of complicated measurements. In just five minutes of prep, you can have a warm, fluffy cake bursting with the sweet and tart flavors of fresh plums. With simple ingredients and no scales required, this cake is an excellent option for busy home cooks who crave something sweet and comforting. While this cake is delicious, it’s also important to enjoy it in moderation due to its sugar content.
Why This Recipe Is Helpful
- Quick and easy preparation with no need for precise measurements.
- Uses fresh plums, making it a tasty way to incorporate fruit into your dessert.
- Perfect for unexpected guests or a last-minute dessert option.
Best For
This recipe is great for families looking for a straightforward dessert or anyone who enjoys baking but wants to keep things simple and fast.
Be Careful If
Be mindful if you’re monitoring sugar intake, as this recipe includes sugar and fruit sweetness.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 8 tablespoons (120 g) sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar or vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- 8 tablespoons (120 ml) vegetable oil
- 8 tablespoons (120 ml) milk
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 8 tablespoons (120 ml) lemon juice
- 8 tablespoons (100 g) flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 400 g fresh plums, pitted and chopped
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Crumble Topping:
- 3 tablespoons (45 g) flour
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) sugar
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) butter
Ingredient Notes
- Fresh plums add a unique flavor, but you can substitute with other fruits if desired.
- Vanilla extract can be swapped with other flavorings if preferred.
- Adjust sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit used.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking pan
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, vanilla sugar (or extract), and a pinch of salt until light and frothy.
- Pour in the vegetable oil, milk, lemon zest, lemon juice, flour, and baking powder. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
- Pit the plums and finely dice half of them. Fold the diced plums into the batter gently.
- Grease a baking pan with butter and pour the batter into it evenly.
- Slice the remaining plums and arrange them evenly over the batter in the pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and butter to create the crumble topping. Sprinkle it over the sliced plums.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180Β°C (350Β°F) for about 40 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing and enjoying!
Pro Tips
- Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Optional: Sprinkle cinnamon on top for added flavor.
- Check the cake a few minutes before the full baking time to avoid overbaking.
Lighter Swaps
- Swap vegetable oil for applesauce for a reduced-fat option.
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added nutrition.
Common Mistakes
- Not whisking the eggs and sugar long enough can lead to a denser cake.
- Overmixing the batter after adding the flour can affect the cake’s texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating Tips
If needed, reheat slice by slice in the oven at a low temperature to retain moisture.
Nutrition Estimate
Calories: Approx. 280 per slice
Protein: 4 g
Carbs: 40 g
Fat: 12 g
Values are estimates and may vary by ingredients and portion size.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Cuisine: Traditional
Course: Dessert
Calories: Approx. 280 per slice
For more delicious and simple recipes, you might enjoy this 5-minute stovetop plum cake as well!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
A: Yes, feel free to substitute with other seasonal fruits like peaches or cherries.
Q: Can this cake be frozen?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cake. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer bag.
Q: How long will this cake last?
A: The cake is best enjoyed within 2 days but can last up to a week in the fridge, covered properly.