Pin it A tender and aromatic almond cake, enriched with juicy plums and a hint of vanilla, perfect for cozy evenings and sweet home bakes.
This cake has become a favorite for family gatherings, bringing warmth and sweetness to every bite.
Ingredients
- Fruit: 5 ripe plums, pitted and sliced, 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for plums)
- Cake Batter: 1 1/4 cups (150 g) all-purpose flour, 1 cup (100 g) finely ground almonds (almond meal), 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated sugar, 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened, 2 large eggs, at room temperature, 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk, at room temperature, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp almond extract
- Topping: 2 tbsp sliced almonds, 1 tbsp powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan with parchment paper.
- Prepare Plums:
- In a small bowl, toss the sliced plums with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Set aside to macerate while you prepare the batter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and salt.
- Beat Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Extracts:
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add half of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, then pour in the milk. Add the remaining dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Assemble Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Arrange the sugared plum slices evenly over the batter. Sprinkle with sliced almonds.
- Bake:
- Bake for 38–42 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cake is golden.
- Cool:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust and Serve:
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Pin it This cake brings our family together, especially on chilly evenings when its aroma fills the home with comfort.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.
Pairing
A light Riesling or Moscato pairs beautifully with this cake enhancing the overall experience.
Allergen Information
Contains eggs, milk (dairy), tree nuts (almonds), and wheat (gluten). Always check ingredient labels for potential cross-contamination if allergies are a concern.
Pin it
This plum-infused almond cake is a delightful way to finish any meal or to enjoy alongside afternoon tea.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I prepare the plums for baking?
Slice the ripe plums and toss them with granulated sugar to macerate, enhancing their natural sweetness and juiciness before arranging atop the batter.
- → Can I substitute the almond meal with another ingredient?
Almond meal provides a moist, nutty texture; finely ground hazelnuts or pecans could be used but will alter the flavor profile.
- → What is the ideal baking temperature and time?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 38-42 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake surface turns golden.
- → Are there serving suggestions to enhance the flavors?
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, and consider pairing with a light Riesling or Moscato to complement the sweetness.
- → Can this be made dairy-free or egg-free?
Dairy and eggs are key for texture and moisture; alternative plant-based milks and egg substitutes may work but require testing for best results.
- → How can I add more spice to the cake?
Including a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the batter adds warm spice notes that complement the plums and almonds well.