Description
The Enchanted Plum Cake is a rustic yet elegant dessert that brings the natural sweetness of juicy plums to the forefront. This delightful cake is tender, moist, and bursting with the vibrant flavors of summer. Whether enjoyed with a warm cup of tea or as a show-stopping dessert at dinner, it’s perfect for any occasion.
This recipe comes in two enchanting variations: a classic vanilla base and a spiced version, each promising a magical baking experience and incredible taste.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- Fruit Lovers: Celebrate the sweet and tangy flavors of ripe plums.
- Bakers of All Levels: Both novice and experienced bakers will find this recipe simple and rewarding.
- Fans of Versatility: Enjoy the cake as is, or elevate it with spices for a cozier flavor profile.
Why It’s Great
- Easy to Make: Straightforward steps and minimal equipment required.
- Customizable: Two delicious versions—classic and spiced—let you choose your flavor adventure.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s tea time or a dinner party, this cake is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Classic Enchanted Plum Cake
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup milk
- 6–8 ripe plums, pitted and sliced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
Spiced Enchanted Plum Cake
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 6–8 ripe plums, pitted and sliced
- ¼ cup brown sugar (for topping)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Electric mixer or whisk
- 8 or 9-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Wire rack for cooling
Directions
Classic Enchanted Plum Cake
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour the cake pan.
- Prepare Plums: Toss the plum slices with lemon juice and set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
- Arrange Plums: Pour the batter into the pan and arrange the plum slices in a circular pattern on top.
- Sprinkle Sugar: Sprinkle the plums with 1 tbsp granulated sugar.
- Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
Spiced Enchanted Plum Cake
- Follow steps 1–3 above.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the dry ingredients.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Cream butter and sugar as in step 4.
- Add Eggs and Sour Cream: Beat in eggs, then stir in vanilla and sour cream.
- Follow steps 6–10 above. For topping, mix brown sugar and cinnamon, and sprinkle over the plums before baking.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freezer: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
FAQ
1. Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Absolutely! Peaches, apricots, or nectarines work wonderfully as substitutes.
2. How can I ensure the cake is moist?
Measure your ingredients carefully and avoid overmixing the batter.
3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour substitute for best results.
Conclusion
The Enchanted Plum Cake is a versatile dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. Whether you choose the classic version or opt for the warm spices, this cake is guaranteed to enchant your taste buds. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a must-try recipe that celebrates the sweetness of summer and the joy of baking.
Try it today and add a sprinkle of magic to your kitchen!
