Indulge in the charming flavors of our Sumptuous Plum and Almond Cake, where the natural sweetness of plums pairs perfectly with a soft, butter-rich batter. This cake is not just a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes, featuring beautifully arranged plum slices that sink slightly into the golden batter, topped with a sprinkle of slivered almonds for a delightful crunch. Ideal for any season, this cake brings a touch of elegance and rustic charm to your table.
Why You’ll Love This:
This Plum and Almond Cake stands out for its moist texture and balanced sweetness, enhanced by the juiciness of the plums and the subtle nuttiness of almonds. The recipe is straightforward yet yields a cake that looks and tastes as if it came from a gourmet bakery. Its simple elegance makes it perfect for both casual afternoons and festive occasions. Moreover, the recipe is flexible, allowing you to adjust the sweetness or add other fruits as per your taste.
Perfect Occasion:
This cake is a versatile choice, ideal for a cozy family gathering, an elegant brunch, or a festive dinner dessert. It's particularly perfect for late summer and early autumn when plums are in season, offering a fresh, seasonal treat. This cake also makes a thoughtful homemade gift or a potluck standout, sure to impress with its lovely appearance and delicious taste.
Decoration Tips:
For an extra touch of elegance, serve this cake on a vintage-style cake stand. Dusting it with powdered sugar just before serving adds a snowy effect that enhances its visual appeal. To make it more festive, garnish with fresh mint leaves or a few extra fresh plum slices around the base. For a richer finish, a drizzle of almond glaze or honey over the top before serving can elevate this simple cake into a decadent dessert.
Ingredients:
- 500g plums, pitted and sliced
- 150g all-purpose flour
- 100g sugar
- 100g butter, softened
- 2 medium eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 50ml milk
- A handful of blanched, slivered almonds for topping
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and flour, or line with parchment, a 20cm (8-inch) round baking tin.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This introduces air into the batter, helping the cake rise.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This prevents clumping and ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents.
- Mix Batter:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until smooth and well combined. This step ensures a balanced texture.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared tin, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Arrange the plum slices cut side up on the batter, pressing them in slightly. Sprinkle the almonds over the top for a nutty crunch.
- Bake:
- Place in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving to add a touch of sweetness and a professional finish.
Enjoy your homemade Plum and Almond Cake, a perfect blend of juicy, fruity sweetness and comforting, buttery indulgence!