German Plum Coffee Cake with Almonds (Pflaumenkuchen)
Introduction
Embark on a delightful journey with this German Plum Coffee Cake, a classic treat that merges the rich, buttery texture of coffee cake with the sweet, juicy essence of fresh red plums. Adapted from the esteemed “Backen Spezial” magazine, this recipe provides a fresh twist by using sweet red or purple plums instead of the traditional prune plums, bringing a vibrant burst of flavor and color to your table. Whether you’re hosting a brunch for a large group or simply indulging in a cozy afternoon snack, this cake is sure to impress. With a light, fluffy crumb and a tantalizing topping of toasted almonds and powdered sugar, it’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups sweet red plums (or sweet purple plums, not the oval prune variety)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Equipment
- Jelly roll pan or large rimmed cookie sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Electric mixer (optional for creaming butter and sugar)
Instructions
-
Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the cake bakes evenly and develops a golden-brown crust. -
Prepare the Plums
Wash and pit the red or purple plums. Slice them into thin wedges, making sure they are ripe and sweet for the best flavor. -
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or wooden spoon to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and smooth. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your cake. -
Incorporate the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. This helps to ensure that the eggs are fully incorporated and the batter is smooth. -
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and ground cinnamon. This mixture will provide the structure and leavening for your cake. -
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in small batches, mixing gently just until the dry ingredients are moistened. Use a whisk or wooden spoon for this step to maintain the lightness of the batter. Over-mixing can result in a dense cake. -
Add Lemon Juice
Stir in the fresh lemon juice, which adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the plums and enhances the overall taste of the cake. -
Prepare the Pan
Grease a jelly roll pan or large rimmed cookie sheet with butter or non-stick spray. Spread the batter evenly across the pan, smoothing it with a spatula to cover the entire surface. -
Add the Plums
Evenly distribute the plum slices over the batter. Press them gently into the surface to ensure they bake into the cake. -
Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and set in the middle. -
Finish with Toppings
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and immediately sprinkle the top with toasted almond slices. Dust generously with powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness and visual appeal. -
Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan before cutting it into squares. This will make it easier to handle and serve. Enjoy your homemade German Plum Coffee Cake as a delicious treat with coffee or tea!
Serving Suggestions
This delightful cake is perfect for a brunch gathering, a festive holiday treat, or as a sweet surprise for guests. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent experience.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 318.8 per serving
- Fat Content: 16.2g
- Saturated Fat Content: 8.9g
- Cholesterol Content: 66.6mg
- Sodium Content: 191.3mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 40g
- Fiber Content: 2.1g
- Sugar Content: 19g
- Protein Content: 4.9g
Enjoy making this delightful German Plum Coffee Cake, and may it bring joy and sweetness to your home! 🍑🍰
