Soft Sweet Plum Almond Cake

A tender and aromatic almond cake, enriched with juicy plums and a hint of vanilla, perfect for cozy evenings and sweet home bakes.

Ingredients

• 5 ripe plums: pitted and sliced
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar: for plums
• 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:
• 2 tbsp sliced almonds:
• 1 tbsp powdered sugar: optional for dusting

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan with parchment paper.

Step 2:

In a small bowl, toss the sliced plums with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Set aside to macerate while you prepare the batter.

Step 3:

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and salt.

Step 4:

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Step 5:

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.

Step 6:

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.

Step 7:

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Arrange the sugared plum slices evenly over the batter. Sprinkle with sliced almonds.

Step 8:

Bake for 38–42 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cake is golden.

Step 9:

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10:

Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

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Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prepare the plums for this cake?

Slice ripe plums and toss them with a tablespoon of sugar to macerate, enhancing their natural sweetness before layering atop the batter.

→ Can I substitute the almonds in the batter?

Finely ground almonds provide a distinctive flavor and texture, but ground hazelnuts or cashews could be used for a subtle twist.

→ What is the best way to achieve a moist texture?

Combine softened butter with sugar until fluffy, incorporate eggs one at a time, and avoid overmixing once dry ingredients are added for a tender crumb.

→ How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden, typically 38 to 42 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

→ Are there suggested flavor variations?

Adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter or substituting plums with apricots or peaches can create delightful variations.

→ What are good serving ideas for this cake?

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream; a light Riesling or Moscato also pairs beautifully.