If you have a soft spot for fruit-forward desserts that are bursting with flavor and never dry, then this Moist Plum Cake Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender, spiced cake with juicy slices of fresh plums nestled on top, creating a wonderful harmony of sweetness and slight tartness, all wrapped up in a delightfully moist texture that’s perfect for any time craving strikes. This cake isn’t just delicious, it’s simple to make and sure to impress your family or guests with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Moist Plum Cake Recipe plays a vital role, working together to create a perfectly tender crumb, a tantalizing spice note, and that gorgeous golden color that makes it look as good as it tastes. These essentials come together simply and effortlessly, making it a great go-to recipe for bakers of all levels.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The base of the cake’s soft and tender crumb, providing structure without heaviness.
- Baking powder (1 tsp): Leavens the cake, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
- Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Works alongside baking powder to create extra rise and helps balance the yogurt’s acidity.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 tsp): Adds a warm, comforting spice note that complements the plums beautifully.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 tsp): Provides subtle depth and a hint of nutty spice to enhance the flavor.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and elevates all the other flavors.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup): Creates richness and moisture that keep the cake tender.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the batter while helping with browning.
- Large eggs (2): Bind ingredients together and add to the cake’s structure and moisture.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a lovely aromatic note that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Plain Greek yogurt (1/2 cup): Keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender, plus adds a slight tang to balance sweetness.
- Fresh plums, pitted and sliced (4-5, about 2 cups): The star fruit giving juicy bursts of flavor and a gorgeous appearance on top.
- Brown sugar (2 tbsp, for topping): Sprinkled over the plums, it caramelizes in the oven creating a delectable crust.
How to Make Moist Plum Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preparing Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This step ensures your cake bakes evenly without sticking, maintaining that perfect shape and texture we aim for.
Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Combining these dry ingredients now distributes the leavening agents and spices evenly, which will give your Moist Plum Cake Recipe consistent texture and balanced flavor throughout.
Step 3: Creaming Butter and Sugar
In a larger bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale — this takes about 2 to 3 minutes. This aeration step is what helps create that tender crumb, so don’t rush it. Trust this moment to build the cake’s lovely texture.
Step 4: Adding Eggs, Vanilla, and Yogurt
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to keep the batter smooth and emulsified. Then, mix in the vanilla extract and Greek yogurt until fully incorporated. The yogurt is a secret hero here — it boosts moisture and adds slight tanginess that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the plums.
Step 5: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring carefully until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cake tender and soft. When you see no more streaks of flour, it’s time to move on. This gentle folding preserves the delicate crumb that makes this Moist Plum Cake Recipe so irresistible.
Step 6: Arranging the Plums and Baking
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top evenly. Now comes the fun part: arrange the sliced plums over the batter in a circular, slightly overlapping pattern. Finish by sprinkling brown sugar evenly atop the plums — as the cake bakes, this sugar caramelizes, adding a golden, crunchy touch. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cooling and Serving
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time firms up the structure while keeping the inside moist and tender, preparing it for the best possible serving experience.
How to Serve Moist Plum Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this cake even more, try topping slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add an elegant touch and highlight the beautiful plum slices.
Side Dishes
Pair your cake with a hot cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee to complement the warm cinnamon and nutmeg notes. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit or a simple yogurt parfait for a delightful balance of textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a twist, serve individual cake portions in small ramekins or glasses layered with plum compote and whipped cream, turning the cake into an elegant trifle. You can also drizzle a cinnamon glaze over the top for extra shine and spice that amplifies the Moist Plum Cake Recipe’s appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your cake fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate it to maintain the moist texture, but allow the cake to come back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezing
This cake freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can keep well for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator, then warm gently if desired to recapture that freshly baked softness.
Reheating
To enjoy the cake warm, reheat slices in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes. The gentle heat revives moisture and lets the fragrant spices come alive again, reminding you why this Moist Plum Cake Recipe is such a favorite.
FAQs
Can I use frozen plums for this cake?
Yes, frozen plums can work if fresh ones are out of season. Be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which could make the cake soggy. Patting them dry before placing on the batter helps maintain the perfect texture.
Is Greek yogurt necessary for the Moist Plum Cake Recipe?
Greek yogurt adds moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness beautifully, making the cake tender. If you don’t have it, sour cream or buttermilk can be good substitutes, offering similar moisture and flavor benefits.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick or cake tester in the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. The caramelized brown sugar on top should be golden and bubbly as well.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Keep in mind that texture might vary slightly, but you’ll still enjoy the delicious flavors of this Moist Plum Cake Recipe.
What’s the best way to slice and serve this cake?
Use a sharp serrated knife for clean cuts that keep the plum slices intact and beautiful. Slice gently and serve each piece with some of the tender plums on top for full flavor and an inviting presentation.
Final Thoughts
This Moist Plum Cake Recipe is truly one of those magical desserts that feels both comforting and special. Its tender crumb, luscious plums, and warm spices come together so effortlessly you’ll want to make it again and again. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or to impress loved ones, this cake promises smiles and plenty of requests for seconds. Go ahead and give it a try—you deserve this fruity, flavorful slice of happiness!
Print
Moist Plum Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Moist Plum Cake is a delightful dessert featuring tender cake infused with warm spices and topped with juicy fresh plums. Perfectly balanced with Greek yogurt for extra moisture and a hint of tang, this cake offers a luscious texture and rich flavor ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
Fruit and Topping
- 4–5 fresh plums, pitted and sliced (about 2 cups)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step incorporates air, helping create a tender cake.
- Add eggs and flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully combine. Then mix in the vanilla extract and Greek yogurt until the batter is smooth and uniform.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently and mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
- Assemble the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Arrange the plum slices on top in a circular, slightly overlapping pattern for an attractive finish. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the plums to enhance caramelization during baking.
- Bake the cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure plums are ripe but firm to hold shape and add juiciness.
- Using Greek yogurt keeps the cake moist while adding a slight tanginess.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free yogurt.
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Leftover cake can be gently reheated before serving to restore moisture.
