This French Plum Cake is a delightful blend of tender cake, juicy plums, and a buttery crumb topping. Perfect for any occasion, this cake combines the sweetness of ripe plums with the richness of a yogurt-based batter, creating a moist and flavorful treat that’s sure to please. The crumb topping adds a wonderful texture and a hint of sweetness, making each bite irresistible.

Ideal for a cozy afternoon tea or as a dessert for a special dinner, this French Plum Cake is both simple to make and impressive to serve. The use of yogurt in the batter ensures a tender crumb, while the fresh plums provide a burst of natural sweetness. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delicious results.

 

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Cake Batter:

• 2 eggs
• Pinch of salt
• 100 g sugar
• 100 g butter (melted)
• 10 g vanilla sugar
• 200 g yogurt
• 230 g flour
• 15 g baking powder

For the Topping:

• 2 tbsp sugar
• 2 tbsp flour
• 40 g butter
• 14 plums (pitted and halved)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
   • In a large bowl, beat the 2 eggs with a pinch of salt until frothy.
   • Add 100 g of sugar and 10 g of vanilla sugar, and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
   • Gradually pour in the melted butter (100 g) and mix well.
   • Add 200 g of yogurt and mix until fully incorporated.
   • In another bowl, sift together 230 g of flour and 15 g of baking powder.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
2. Prepare the Topping:
   • In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp of sugar, 2 tbsp of flour, and 40 g of butter. Mix with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Assemble the Cake:
   • Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
   • Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
   • Arrange the halved plums, cut side up, on top of the batter.
   • Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the plums.
4. Bake the Cake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
   • Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
   • Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Serve:
   • Once the cake has cooled, slice it into portions and serve. Enjoy your delicious French Plum Cake!

Tips:

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• You can substitute the plums with other fruits like peaches or apricots for variety.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour

Kcal: 250 kcal per serving (approximate) | Servings: Makes about 8-10 slices

Here are some additional tips and information about this recipe:

Tips for Making the Best French Plum Cake

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better incorporation.
2. Fruit Substitutions: You can substitute the plums with other fruits like peaches, apricots, or nectarines for variety.
3. Crumb Topping: Mix the crumb topping with your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs for the best texture.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

1. Flavor Enhancements: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a spiced version.
2. Serving Ideas: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of honey.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle powdered sugar over the cooled cake for an elegant presentation.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The baked cake can be frozen. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a brief look at the nutritional content per serving (approximate values):

• Calories: 250 kcal per serving
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 20g

Possible Questions About This Recipe

1. Can I use frozen plums?
   • Yes, thaw the plums completely and pat them dry before using.
2. What if I don’t have vanilla sugar?
   • Substitute with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
   • Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
4. What other toppings can I use?
   • You can add nuts like almonds or walnuts to the crumb topping for extra crunch.
5. How do I know when the cake is done?
   • The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Can I use a different type of sugar?
   • Yes, you can use brown sugar or coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.
7. What type of yogurt is best?
   • Full-fat or Greek yogurt works best for a rich and moist cake.
8. How do I prevent the fruit from sinking?
   • Toss the fruit in a little flour before adding it to the batter to help prevent sinking.
9. Can I add spices to the crumb topping?
   • Yes, adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crumb topping can enhance the flavor.
10. How should I store the cake?
    • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer storage.

Conclusion

Serve this cake warm or at room temperature, garnished with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream. The combination of soft cake, juicy fruit, and crunchy topping makes it a versatile dessert that pairs well with coffee, tea, or a glass of dessert wine. Enjoy the flavors and textures of this delightful French Plum Cake and share it with your loved ones for a truly special treat.