Plum Bundt Cake (Ciambella alle Prugne)
This Plum Bundt Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, tangy flavor of ripe plums with the light, fluffy texture of a classic Italian cake. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a special occasion, this cake is simple to make but packs a flavorful punch. With its tender crumb, warm sweetness, and vibrant plum topping, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ripe Plums | 600g |
| Unsalted Butter | 180g |
| Granulated Sugar | 180g |
| Eggs | 175g (approximately 3-4 eggs) |
| All-Purpose Flour (00) | 300g |
| Whole Milk | 150g |
| Fine Salt | 1 pinch |
| Baking Powder | 10g |
| Lemon Zest | 1 zest |
| Brown Sugar | 20g |
| Powdered Sugar (for garnish) | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by ensuring that all your ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a smooth and fluffy batter. -
-
Prepare the Plums:
Wash the plums thoroughly, then cut them in half and remove the pits. Slice some of the plums into wedges, and chop the remaining plums into small cubes. Set aside. -
Making the Cake Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, add the butter cut into small pieces and the granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture for about 5 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy in texture. -
Incorporate the Eggs:
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This will help the batter stay light and airy. -
Add Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Stir in the pinch of salt, and gradually pour in the milk, alternating with the sifted flour. Mix well after each addition to ensure a smooth consistency. Finally, fold in the baking powder to complete the batter. -
Prepare the Bundt Pan:
Grease and flour a 22cm bundt pan with high sides (about 9 cm in height). Once the pan is ready, pour the batter into it, making sure to level it out evenly. -
Add the Plums:
Gently place the plum wedges over the top of the cake batter, arranging them neatly for a beautiful presentation. Sprinkle the surface with the brown sugar for added sweetness and a caramelized finish during baking. -
Bake the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) with the heat set to static (no fan). Bake the cake for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be sure to check the cake’s doneness as ovens may vary. -
Cool and Serve:
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. After it has cooled slightly, invert the cake onto a serving plate. Let it cool completely. -
Finishing Touches:
Once the cake has fully cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a sweet, elegant finish. Slice and serve!
Enjoy!
Now your Plum Bundt Cake is ready to be enjoyed! The combination of sweet, juicy plums with the soft, fluffy texture of the cake will make this dessert a memorable treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a special celebration, or just enjoying it with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to please.
Pro Tips:
- If you prefer a lighter texture, you can sift the flour twice to ensure it’s extra airy before adding it to the batter.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of vanilla extract or ground cinnamon to the batter.
- For a more decadent touch, serve slices of this plum cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Enjoy the fruits of your labor with this wonderful, easy-to-make plum cake that tastes just like home!
