Easy Plum Cake

Have you ever looked at a basket of fresh plums and wondered if there’s something easier and more delicious than simply eating them raw? Many people assume cakes always require complicated steps or fancy ingredients, but that’s not true. With this Easy Plum Cake, you’ll see how plums transform into a soft, moist, and flavorful dessert without hours of work in the kitchen. This recipe is proof that baking can be simple, fun, and rewarding—even if you don’t consider yourself a baker.

Overview

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This Easy Plum Cake is a light, fruity dessert that highlights the natural sweetness and slight tartness of plums. It requires minimal preparation and just a handful of basic pantry staples. The batter comes together in about 15 minutes, and the cake bakes in less than an hour, making it an excellent option for a weeknight treat or a quick dessert for guests.

• Time required: About 1 hour (15 minutes prep + 45 minutes baking)
• Difficulty level: Beginner-friendly
• Special feature: Perfect balance of tart plums and buttery cake, versatile for both casual snacking and special gatherings

Whether served with a cup of tea, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or as a brunch centerpiece, this cake shines with its rustic charm and delightful flavor.

Essential Ingredients

To make this cake, you don’t need anything fancy. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Plums – Fresh, ripe plums work best. You can use red, black, or yellow plums depending on what you have.
• Flour – All-purpose flour forms the base. You may substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• Sugar – White sugar is standard, but brown sugar can be used for deeper caramel notes.
• Eggs – Provide structure and richness. For an egg-free version, use applesauce or flaxseed mixture.
• Butter – Unsalted butter adds moisture and flavor. You can replace it with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Baking powder – Ensures the cake rises properly.
• Salt – A pinch enhances all the flavors.
• Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth.
• Milk – Keeps the cake moist. Use almond or oat milk if you prefer a dairy-free option.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap plums for peaches, apricots, or cherries when they’re in season.
• Use a mix of warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozier flavor.
• Add a handful of chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds) for crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare your pan

Grease a round or square cake pan and line it with parchment paper. This ensures your cake doesn’t stick and comes out easily.

Step 2: Preheat your oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is essential to achieve even baking.

Step 3: Slice the plums

Wash and dry your plums. Cut them in half, remove the pits, and slice them into thin wedges. The thinner the slices, the better they caramelize and blend into the cake.

Step 4: Make the batter

In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, until you have a smooth batter.

Step 5: Assemble the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Arrange the plum slices on top in a circular or layered pattern. The fruit will sink slightly as the cake bakes, creating pockets of juicy flavor.

Step 6: Bake

Place the cake in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The plums will become tender, and the top will turn golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and serve

Allow the cake to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to cut without crumbling. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Assembly and Presentation

While this cake looks beautiful with just plums on top, you can make it extra inviting:

• Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt on the side.
• For a rustic touch, serve it directly from the pan with a wooden spoon.

If you’re entertaining, place the cake on a white cake stand and garnish with a few fresh plum slices around the base for a simple but elegant look.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Room temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–10 minutes for that just-baked taste.

If you want to prepare ahead, you can make the batter the night before, store it in the fridge, and bake it fresh the next day.

Recipe Variations

This cake is versatile and adapts to many flavors:

• Plum Almond Cake: Add almond extract to the batter and sprinkle sliced almonds on top.
• Spiced Plum Cake: Mix cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom into the flour for a warm, cozy taste.
• Plum Upside-Down Cake: Place plums at the bottom of the pan with a sprinkle of sugar, pour the batter on top, and bake. Flip before serving.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use almond flour or a gluten-free baking mix.
• Plum Crumble Cake: Add a simple crumb topping made of butter, sugar, and flour for extra texture.

Conclusion

This Easy Plum Cake is proof that delicious desserts don’t have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can transform ripe plums into a moist and flavorful cake that works for both everyday treats and special occasions. Whether you enjoy it plain, with whipped cream, or as part of a brunch spread, this cake is one of those recipes you’ll want to make again and again.

So the next time you see fresh plums at the market, don’t just eat them raw—bake this cake and let their flavor shine in every bite.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen plums instead of fresh?
Yes, just thaw and drain them well before using to avoid excess moisture in the cake.

2. How do I keep the plums from sinking to the bottom?
Lightly coat the slices with a bit of flour before placing them on the batter.

3. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Absolutely. Reduce by ¼ cup if you prefer a less sweet cake. The natural sweetness of the plums will still shine.

4. Is this cake healthy?
Plums are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. While it’s still a dessert, it offers more nutrients compared to heavily frosted cakes.

5. What’s the best way to serve this cake?
It’s wonderful on its own but pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of honey.

6. Can I make this cake vegan?
Yes. Replace the butter with coconut oil, eggs with flaxseed eggs, and milk with almond milk.

7. Why is my cake dense instead of fluffy?
Overmixing the batter can cause density. Mix just until combined for the best texture.