Growing up, I’ve always had a soft spot for the comforting aroma of freshly baked cakes, especially when they involve plump, juicy plums. German Plum Cake, a delightful treat in its own right, holds a special place in my heart. Originating from a rich culinary tradition, this cake offers a unique twist compared to its Polish counterpart. With a thinner cake layer, a generous sprinkle of cinnamon, and a touch of almond extract, this recipe promises a symphony of flavors that will surely captivate your taste buds.
What sets this German Plum Cake apart is its simplicity and versatility. By using less flour and more sour cream, this recipe ensures a moist and tender crumb that perfectly complements the tartness of the plums. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between ease of preparation and exquisite taste. Join me as I unravel the steps to creating this classic German delicacy, and let’s embark on a culinary journey filled with warmth and sweetness.
Ingredients
When it comes to creating a delightful German Plum Cake, having the right ingredients is key to success. Let’s dive into the components that make this dessert an absolute favorite among bakers and plum enthusiasts.
Cake Batter
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup salted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup sour cream
Plum Layer
- 2 large plums, Italian red or black
- For red or black plums, use about 5-6
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold)
Equipment Needed
As I gear up to make this scrumptious German Plum Cake, I make sure to have all the necessary equipment ready to ensure a smooth baking process. Here’s a list of the essential items you will need:
- 9-inch Springform Pan: To bake the cake to perfection and easily release it once baked.
- Mixing Bowls: For combining all the ingredients and creating that perfect cake batter.
- Stand Mixer with Dough Hook: Ideal for kneading the dough efficiently and ensuring a uniform consistency.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure all the ingredients for the cake and streusel topping.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing the plums into quarters and preparing them for the cake.
- Spoon or Spatula: For spreading the cake batter evenly in the pan and incorporating the streusel topping.
- Oven: To bake the cake at the precise temperature for that golden crust and tender crumb.
- Cooling Rack: To allow the cake to cool down properly before serving.
With these essential tools at hand, I can dive into the delightful process of creating a delightful German Plum Cake that will surely impress with its flavors and textures.
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Cake Batter
To start, cream together softened salted butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Then, add eggs, lemon zest, and vanilla, mixing well. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt before adding it to the batter. Mix until just combined, and spread the thick batter into a greased 9-inch baking pan.
Preparing the Plum Layer
Slice the plums in half, and if they’re larger, consider quartering them. Grease a baking pan with butter, and preheat the oven to 350°F. Arrange the plum slices in a circular pattern on top of the cake batter, ensuring they completely cover the batter.
Preparing the Streusel
For the streusel topping, combine sugar, cinnamon, softened butter, and flour in a bowl. Mix until the ingredients clump together, then sprinkle the streusel evenly over the arranged plums. Bake the cake at 350°F for 50-55 minutes or until golden brown. Allow the cake to cool before serving.
Baking the Cake
Pre-Baking Instructions
Before baking the German Plum Cake, it’s essential to preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing it lightly and lining the bottom with parchment paper. This will ensure easy removal of the cake after baking.
- Spoon the prepared cake batter into the springform pan and spread it out evenly using an offset spatula.
- Place the plum slices on top of the batter, skin side up, ensuring even rows for an appealing presentation.
- If using Italian plum halves, place them on the batter skinside down for a traditional touch.
- Prepare the streusel topping by mixing cold unsalted butter, ground cinnamon, and granulated sugar until coarse crumbs form.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping over the plums.
- Optionally, dust the top of the cake with additional ground cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for approximately 50-60 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then carefully remove it from the springform pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, dust the cake with confectioners sugar for a decorative finish before serving.
Serving and Storage
Best Ways to Serve German Plum Cake
I love serving German Plum Cake warm with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm cake contrasts beautifully with the cool, creamy topping, enhancing the overall experience. The flavor combination of the spiced plums and buttery cake is truly delightful.
Storage Tips
To store leftover German Plum Cake, ensure it has completely cooled. You can keep it at room temperature for up to two days if stored in an airtight container. However, for longer storage, I recommend refrigerating the cake. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or store it in a sealed container before placing it in the fridge. When ready to enjoy again, you can briefly warm the cake in the oven or microwave for a comforting treat.
Conclusion
I’ve shared my passion for German Plum Cake, highlighting its unique flavors and the simple steps to create this delightful treat. Remember to serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a perfect balance of sweetness. Whether stored at room temperature for a couple of days or refrigerated for longer freshness, this cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Follow the provided heating instructions for a cozy indulgence whenever the craving strikes. Embrace the joy of baking and savoring this classic German delicacy in your own kitchen.