Imagine the warm aroma of sweet, caramelized plums wafting through your kitchen as you slice into a perfectly baked treat. This is the magic of Easy Plum Cake. With its tender crumb and juicy fruit, every bite is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that dance on your palate.
What sets this cake apart is its effortless combination of sweetness and a hint of tartness from the plums, creating an irresistible balance. Perfect for a cozy afternoon tea or a casual get-together, this cake quickly becomes a crowd favorite.
Whether serving it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or enjoying it plain with your morning coffee, it’s bound to bring a smile. Best of all, this recipe allows you to whip it up in no time, making it a go-to for both seasoned bakers and kitchen novices. In this article, you will learn how to craft this delightful dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Plum Cake
This easy plum cake is a delightful treat that blends convenience with exquisite flavor, making it a must-try for any dessert lover!
- Effortless to make — With a straightforward process, you can whip this up in no time, perfect for spontaneous baking.
- Simple, wholesome ingredients — Uses fresh plums and pantry staples, ensuring a delicious cake without complicated shopping.
- Kid-approved — Its sweet, fruity flavor makes it an instant hit with children, encouraging them to enjoy wholesome desserts.
- Impressive for guests — Serve this stunning cake at gatherings, and watch it disappear while you bask in compliments!
- Comforting and nostalgic — Enjoy every slice as it brings back memories of home baking and cozy afternoons.
- Perfect for any occasion — Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive celebration, this cake fits right in.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened, can substitute with margarine)
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups ripe plums (pitted and chopped, about 4-5 medium plums)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (sprinkled)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (sprinkled)
- Extra chopped walnuts (optional, for garnish)
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- Parchment paper (for lining the pan)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Wire cooling rack (optional but helpful)
- Sharp knife (for slicing the plums)
How to Make Easy Plum Cake
Prepare the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and set it aside.
- Mix the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined.
- Cream the butter and sugar. In another bowl, beat ½ cup of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add the eggs and vanilla. Incorporate 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Combine the mixtures. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with ½ cup of milk. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Add the Plums
- Prepare the plums. Wash, pit, and slice 2 to 3 medium ripe plums into thin wedges. Place them in a small bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon of sugar to enhance their flavor.
- Fold in the plums. Gently fold the plum wedges into the cake batter using a spatula until evenly distributed.
Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter. Transfer the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the cake. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Cool before serving. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips for the Best Easy Plum Cake
- Use ripe plums — Choose plums that are slightly soft and fragrant for the best flavor and moisture in your cake.
- Don’t skip the resting time — Allow the batter to sit for 15 minutes before baking. This helps the flavors meld and improves texture.
- Substitute for gluten-free needs — Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free option.
- Experiment with spices — Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy flavor profile.
- Enhance moisture with yogurt — Swap out some butter for plain yogurt; this adds richness without extra fat.
- Make-ahead option — Bake the cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. The flavors deepen overnight!
Variations to Try
- Nuts and seeds option — Fold in half a cup of chopped walnuts or almonds for added crunch and nutrition.
- Orange zest twist — Grate the zest of one orange into the batter to brighten up the overall flavor.
- Cardamom kick — Sprinkle a little ground cardamom into the batter for an exotic twist that complements the plums.
How to Store Easy Plum Cake
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Refrigerator: For extended freshness, place the cake in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor.
Freezer: Easy Plum Cake freezes well. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat
To reheat, microwave a slice for 20-30 seconds or warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, until it’s heated through. Avoid reheating more than once for the best texture.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, or bake the cake ahead of time and store it as described above to enjoy later.
Nutrition Information
Estimated values per serving. Nutrition may vary based on ingredients used.
| Serving Size | 1 slice (60g) |
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 20g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried plums instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use dried plums (prunes), but soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes to soften before adding them to the batter. This helps mimic the moisture of fresh plums.
Can I make this plum cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum for best results.
How should I store the plum cake, and how long will it last?
Store the plum cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe! Just make sure to use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time accordingly; the cake may take a little longer to cook through.
Why did my plum cake turn out dry?
Your cake might be overbaked or the flour measurement may have been too high. To avoid dryness, always check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time.
What pairs well with plum cake for serving?
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a flavorful twist, serve it with a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to bake the cake fresh since the batter may lose some leavening power. However, you can prepare the chopped plums and dry ingredients in advance, then mix and bake when you’re ready.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — an easy and delicious Easy Plum Cake that’s perfect for any gathering or a cozy afternoon treat. With its moist texture and delightful flavor, this cake is sure to impress both family and friends, making it a wonderful addition to your baking repertoire.
We invite you to try this recipe for yourself! We’d love to hear how it turns out for you, so please share your thoughts in the comments below. If you enjoyed this cake, don’t forget to share it on social media and save or bookmark the recipe for future baking adventures. Happy baking!