If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines rich flavors with a cozy vibe, you’re in the right place! German Plum Cake, or Pflaumenkuchen, is a delightful dessert that everyone will love. With this simple guide, you’ll discover how to make your own perfect cake, pick the best plums, and explore fun variations. Get ready to impress friends and family with a slice of this flavorful German classic!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for German Plum Cake
To make this delightful German Plum Cake, you’ll need these key ingredients:
– 400g ripe plums, pitted and halved
– 200g unsalted butter, softened
– 200g granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 300g all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pinch of salt
These ingredients come together to create a moist and flavorful cake. The plums offer a sweet and tart taste, while the butter, eggs, and sugar create a rich, tender crumb.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
You can enhance the cake’s taste with these optional ingredients:
– 50g ground almonds (for added flavor)
– Powdered sugar for dusting (for a pretty finish)
Adding ground almonds gives the cake a nutty flavor and a lovely texture. Dusting with powdered sugar makes it look elegant and inviting.
Common Substitutions
If you can’t find some ingredients, here are a few swaps:
– Use margarine instead of unsalted butter for a dairy-free option.
– Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free cake.
– Any fresh fruit can work if you want to switch from plums. Try peaches or cherries for a fun twist.
These substitutions help you adapt the recipe to fit your needs while keeping it delicious. Don’t be afraid to experiment! For the complete guide, check the Full Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps for the Cake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This step ensures even baking. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter and flour, or use parchment paper. In a large bowl, take 200g of softened unsalted butter and 200g of granulated sugar. Cream them together until light and fluffy. This process adds air to the batter. Next, add four large eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. In another bowl, combine 300g of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 pinch of salt. If you want, add 50g of ground almonds for flavor. Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet ones. Be gentle; overmixing can make the cake tough. Once mixed, pour the batter into your prepared pan. Spread it evenly.
Baking Process and Temperature
Now it’s time to bake! Place the pan in your preheated oven. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should also be golden brown. Keep an eye on the cake towards the end of the baking time. Every oven is a bit different, so adjust as needed.
Cooling and Serving Suggestions
Once baked, take the cake out of the oven. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps it set. After that, move it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely. If you like, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. Slice it into squares and serve on a nice platter. For extra flair, add fresh mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream on top. Enjoy your German Plum Cake with friends and family! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Right Plums for the Best Flavor
To make the best German plum cake, you need ripe plums. Look for plums that are soft but not mushy. The skin should be shiny and free of blemishes. I love using Italian plums for their sweet taste. They hold their shape well and add great flavor. You can also try other varieties, like Damson or Purple Heart. Just make sure they are sweet. You want that burst of flavor in every bite!
How to Achieve a Fluffy Cake Texture
For a light and fluffy cake, start with softened butter. Cream it well with sugar until it’s pale and fluffy. This step adds air to the batter. Then, add the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Be gentle when adding the flour mixture. Overmixing can make the cake dense. Fold in the dry ingredients just until combined. This keeps the cake tender and fluffy.
Presentation Ideas for Serving
To make your German plum cake look great, slice it into squares. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Serve the slices on a pretty platter. A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a nice touch. For extra flair, add fresh mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream. This makes the cake feel special. It’s perfect for gatherings or just a treat for yourself. Enjoy your cake with a cup of tea or coffee!
Variations
Classic vs. Streuselkuchen
The classic German plum cake has a soft base. It lets the plums shine. You can also try Streuselkuchen. This version adds a crunchy topping. It uses butter, sugar, and flour mixed together. This gives the cake a sweet, crumbly texture. If you enjoy an extra crunch, go for Streuselkuchen. It adds fun and flavor to your dessert!
Other Fruit Alternatives
Plums are great, but you can use other fruits too. Try using cherries, apples, or peaches. Each fruit brings a unique taste. Cherries add a tartness, while apples give sweetness. Peaches offer a juicy bite. Feel free to mix and match fruits for your own twist. This way, you can enjoy different flavors in every batch!
Gluten-Free or Vegan Options
Want to make it gluten-free? Use almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Both work well in this recipe. For a vegan version, swap eggs for flaxseed meal mixed with water. You can also use plant-based butter. This way, everyone can enjoy a slice. No need to miss out on this tasty cake!
For more details, check out the Full Recipe.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Cake
To store leftover German plum cake, place it in an airtight container. This keeps the cake fresh. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want it to last longer, refrigeration is a good option. Just remember, the cake may dry out in the fridge.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing this cake is simple and effective. Allow the cake to cool completely first. Then, slice it into pieces for easy serving later. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag. The cake can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, you can thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Best Ways to Reheat for Serving
Reheating German plum cake is easy. If you prefer it warm, preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F). Place the cake slices on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating. Just warm a slice for 15-20 seconds. Serve it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra flair. For the full recipe, refer to the earlier section.
FAQs
What is a traditional German Plum Cake recipe?
A traditional German Plum Cake recipe is a simple and tasty dessert. It uses fresh plums, butter, sugar, and eggs. You mix these ingredients to create a soft batter. The plums sit on top, adding flavor and juiciness. This cake is often enjoyed during plum season. You can find the full recipe above.
Can I use frozen plums for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen plums for this recipe. Make sure to thaw and drain them first. This helps to avoid extra moisture in the cake. Chopping them into halves helps them blend well into the batter. Just remember, fresh plums give a better taste and texture.
How long does German Plum Cake last?
German Plum Cake lasts about three to five days at room temperature. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you place it in the fridge, it may last a week. However, the texture might change. For the best taste, enjoy it within a few days.
Is German Plum Cake served warm or cold?
German Plum Cake can be served warm or cold. Serving it warm offers a cozy, comforting feel, especially with a scoop of ice cream. If you prefer it cold, allow it to cool completely. Both ways are delicious, so try them both!
We explored German Plum Cake, from key ingredients to baking tips. You learned how to choose the best plums and create a fluffy texture. Variations like streuselkuchen and gluten-free options were discussed. Lastly, we covered storage and reheating methods for leftovers.
Try this recipe, and make it your own. Enjoy the delicious flavors and share with friends!
