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.
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
- 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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Pin it Recipe FAQs
- → How should the plums be prepared before baking?
Slice and toss the plums with granulated sugar to macerate, which softens them and releases their natural juices during baking.
- → Can I substitute the almond flour used in the cake?
Finely ground almonds add moisture and flavor; however, ground hazelnuts can be a suitable alternative for a different nutty profile.
- → What is the best way to ensure the cake remains moist?
Use room temperature ingredients and avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a tender crumb and moist texture.
- → Is it necessary to use both vanilla and almond extracts?
Both extracts complement the plum and almond flavors, but vanilla alone can be used if preferred for a milder aroma.
- → How can I enhance the cake’s flavor further?
Adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter or serving with a light Riesling or Moscato wine can elevate the overall taste experience.
- → What tools are essential for preparing this cake?
A 9-inch round cake pan, electric mixer or whisk, mixing bowls, a rubber spatula, wire rack, and parchment paper are necessary to prepare and bake the cake properly.
