Classic Plum Cake with Almond Topping

This classic plum cake combines juicy plums with a moist, tender base, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Topped with crunchy almond flakes and a light dusting of powdered sugar, this cake offers a wonderful blend of textures and flavors. The simplicity of the recipe ensures that anyone can recreate this delicious dessert at home.

Why You’ll Love This:

The tartness of the plums perfectly complements the sweet, buttery cake, providing a satisfying contrast that’s not too overwhelming. It’s an excellent way to use seasonal plums and turn them into a dessert that’s both comforting and elegant. Additionally, the almond flakes add a delightful crunch that enhances each bite.

Perfect Occasion:

This plum cake is perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or as a special treat during the plum season. It’s also an excellent choice for holiday celebrations or as a comforting dessert on a cozy night in. Serve it at brunch for a sweet start to the day or as an after-dinner dessert that everyone will enjoy.

Decoration Tips:

Arrange the plum slices in a beautiful pattern atop the cake for a visually appealing presentation. After baking, a sprinkle of powdered sugar not only adds sweetness but also makes the cake look more enticing. For a little extra flair, add some whole or halved almonds among the plums before baking.

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
  • 20-25 plums, pitted and quartered
  • 125g butter, at room temperature
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (180g)
  • 2 full cups all-purpose flour (220-240g)
  • 1/2 packet baking powder (8g)
  • 1 packet vanilla sugar
  • 2 heaping tablespoons strained yogurt (adjust flour if using watery yogurt)
• For the Topping:
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons sliced almonds
  • Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Plums: Pit and quarter the plums. Set aside.
2. Make the Cake Batter: Cream the butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla sugar and yogurt. Sift together the flour and baking powder, then gently fold into the wet ingredients until just combined.
3. Prepare the Pan: Line a 26 cm springform pan with parchment paper, greasing the sides well.
4. Assemble the Cake: Spread the batter evenly in the pan. Press the plum quarters into the batter in a decorative pattern. Sprinkle with granulated sugar and sliced almonds.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 175°C (347°F). Bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Enjoy this beautifully simple plum cake, where the natural sweetness of the fruit shines through, complemented by the rich, buttery base and crunchy almonds!