The plum cake that melts in your mouth is a delightful treat ideal for those who appreciate a quick and simple dessert. With only five minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for home cooks who need a fast yet satisfying sweet option. Using fresh plums, the cake promises a moist texture and a burst of fruity flavor that pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. Just remember, with moderate sugar and butter, it’s a sweet indulgence best enjoyed in moderation.
Why This Recipe Is Helpful
- It’s a quick and easy dessert that requires only five minutes of prep time.
- The recipe uses fresh plums, providing a burst of seasonal flavor.
- Perfect for gatherings or as a simple family dessert.
Best For
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a hassle-free dessert that impresses without requiring extensive baking experience.
Be Careful If
People managing their sugar intake should enjoy this dessert in moderation due to its sugar content.
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 100 g sugar (1/2 cup)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar
- 100 ml milk
- 80 g butter, melted (approximately 1/3 cup)
- 240 g flour (2 cups)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 tablespoon starch
- 500 g plums, pitted and halved
Ingredient Notes
- Fresh Plums: The key ingredient that gives this cake its unique flavor. Feel free to substitute with another fruit like peaches or apricots if needed.
- Butter: Using real butter enhances the flavor and texture; however, you could try margarine for a lighter option.
- Vanilla Sugar: If unavailable, you can replace it with regular sugar and add a splash of vanilla extract.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking dish (greased or parchment-lined)
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, salt, and vanilla sugar until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved.
- Add the milk at room temperature and stir to combine.
- Melt the butter and slowly mix it into the batter.
- Sift the flour and baking powder together, then gradually stir it into the mixture until you achieve a semi-liquid batter.
- Halve the plums and remove the pits. Dip each half, cut side down, into a little starch to help them hold their shape.
- Arrange the plums, cut side up, in the greased or parchment-lined baking dish.
- Pour the batter evenly over the plums in the dish, ensuring the fruit is well covered.
- Bake the plum cake in a preheated oven at 180°C (360°F) for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool slightly before serving, and enjoy the tender texture and rich flavor.
Pro Tips
- Make sure the butter is slightly cooled before mixing to prevent cooking the eggs.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg on top before baking.
- Always check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off to avoid overbaking.
Lighter Swaps
You can replace half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a slightly lighter cake, but original butter gives the best results.
Common Mistakes
- Not allowing the butter to cool can lead to scrambled eggs.
- Overmixing the batter can result in a denser cake, rather than the light texture you want.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of the plum cake warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, reheat the cake in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes to restore its moist texture.
Nutrition Estimate
Calories: 280
Protein: 4 g
Carbs: 32 g
Fat: 16 g
Values are estimates and may vary by ingredients and portion size.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 8
Cuisine: European
Course: Dessert
Calories: 280
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen plums instead?
Yes, you can use frozen plums; just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
What other fruits can I use?
This recipe works well with other fruits like cherries, peaches, or berries; just adjust the quantity based on the fruit size.
For those interested in exploring more quick and easy desserts, check out this apple and dark chocolate cake recipe that also requires minimal ingredients and time.
