Bask in the abundance of the season with this Plum Delight Cake, a creation born from the bounty of freshly harvested plums. This cake melds the tartness of plums with the sweet and aromatic blend of cinnamon, vanilla, and lemon zest, all nestled within a soft, tender crumb. It's a heartwarming homage to the simplicity and beauty of nature's gifts.
Why You'll Love This:
This cake is a testament to the joy of using fresh, seasonal produce in baking. The plums provide a juicy, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cake, while the spices and lemon zest add layers of flavor that are both comforting and invigorating. It's a perfect balance of texture and taste, making each bite a delightful experience.
Perfect Occasion:
Ideal for a cozy family gathering, a casual brunch, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. It's also a fantastic way to celebrate the plum season, making it a great addition to seasonal parties or as a dessert that showcases the best of your garden's offerings. Whether served as an afternoon treat or as the finale to a meal, this cake is sure to impress.
Decoration Tips:
For a rustic yet elegant finish, dust the baked cake with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze. Garnish with additional fresh plum slices or a few sprigs of mint for a pop of color. To enhance the flavors, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
For the Cake:
- 40g soft butter
- 150g sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 egg
- 100ml milk
- 1 tbsp cream
- 210g flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 4 plums, pitted and quartered
- Preheat the oven to 170°C (338°F). Grease and flour a 20cm diameter cake pan.
- In a bowl, mix together butter, vanilla, cinnamon, sugar, and lemon zest until well combined. Incorporate the egg thoroughly.
- Arrange the plum quarters on the bottom of the prepared pan, then sprinkle with a bit of sugar.
- Pour the batter over the plums and smooth the top. Sprinkle additional sugar over the surface.
- Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Enjoy this Plum Delight Cake as a celebration of the harvest season, where the humble plum takes center stage, transforming a simple cake into a memorable dessert that's as satisfying to make as it is to eat.