Plum Poppy Seed Cake Recipe

Baking has always been my love language, and there’s nothing quite like the aroma of a cake wafting through the house to bring smiles to faces. This Plum Poppy Seed Cake recipe, however, has a special place in our family’s heart. It’s not just a cake; it’s a memory woven with the sweet-tartness of plums and the delicate crunch of poppy seeds. From the first time I baked it, the reaction was overwhelmingly positive. My kids, usually picky eaters when it comes to fruit in desserts, devoured slice after slice, proclaiming it the “best cake ever.” My husband, a self-confessed cake connoisseur, praised its moist texture and the perfect balance of flavors. This cake has become a staple for birthdays, holidays, and even just a simple Sunday afternoon treat. It’s incredibly easy to make, yet it tastes like you’ve spent hours perfecting it. The combination of juicy plums, nutty poppy seeds, and a hint of lemon zest creates a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and sophisticated. If you’re looking for a cake that’s guaranteed to impress and become a family favorite, look no further. This Plum Poppy Seed Cake is it – a delightful bake that brings a little bit of sunshine to every occasion. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create moments of joy and delicious memories.

Ingredients

To embark on this delightful baking journey, gather these fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients. Using high-quality ingredients will significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your Plum Poppy Seed Cake.

For the Cake:

• All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups (375 grams) – Provides the structure for the cake. Make sure to measure correctly using the spoon and level method for accurate results.
• Granulated Sugar: 2 cups (400 grams) – Sweetens the cake and contributes to its moistness. You can slightly reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet cake, but it’s crucial for the overall texture and flavor balance.
• Poppy Seeds: ½ cup (80 grams) – These tiny seeds are the stars of the show, offering a wonderful nutty flavor and a delightful textural contrast. Fresh poppy seeds are key for the best flavor; check the expiration date if you’re unsure.
• Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons – A crucial leavening agent that ensures the cake rises beautifully and becomes light and airy. Make sure your baking powder is fresh for optimal results.
• Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon – Another leavening agent that reacts with the acidity in the recipe (from the plums and lemon zest) to create a tender crumb.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon – Enhances the sweetness and balances all the flavors. Don’t skip the salt; it’s essential for a well-rounded taste.
• Eggs: 4 large – Provide richness, structure, and moisture. Use large eggs at room temperature for better emulsification and a smoother batter.
• Vegetable Oil: 1 cup (240 ml) – Contributes to the cake’s moistness and tender crumb. You can use other neutral oils like canola oil or sunflower oil as well.
• Milk: 1 cup (240 ml) – Adds moisture and helps to bind the ingredients together. Whole milk will give the richest flavor, but you can use 2% or even non-dairy milk alternatives like almond or soy milk.
• Lemon Zest: 2 tablespoons – Brightens the flavors and complements the plums and poppy seeds perfectly. Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the lemon, ensuring you only get the yellow part and avoid the bitter white pith.
• Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons – Enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a touch of warmth. Use pure vanilla extract for the best taste, or vanilla bean paste for an even more intense vanilla flavor.

For the Plum Topping:

• Plums: 1 ½ pounds (about 6-8 medium plums), halved and pitted – Ripe but firm plums are ideal for this cake. Choose plums that are slightly yielding to the touch but not overly soft or bruised. A mix of plum varieties can add complexity to the flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: 2 tablespoons – Lightly sweetens the plums and helps them caramelize slightly during baking.
• Cinnamon: ½ teaspoon – A warm spice that complements the plums beautifully and adds a comforting aroma. You can also use a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a slightly different flavor profile.

Optional Glaze (for extra sweetness and shine):

• Powdered Sugar: 1 cup (120 grams)
• Lemon Juice: 2-3 tablespoons (or milk for a milder glaze)

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to bake a perfect Plum Poppy Seed Cake. Read through the entire recipe before you begin to ensure you have all the ingredients and equipment ready. Baking is a science, and precise measurements and techniques are key for success.

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when you place the cake inside, promoting even baking.
• Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Alternatively, you can use baking spray with flour. This prevents the cake from sticking to the pan and ensures easy removal after baking. If you are using a bundt pan, grease and flour it thoroughly, paying special attention to all the crevices.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, poppy seeds, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is crucial for consistent texture and leavening. Make sure to break up any clumps of baking powder or baking soda.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, milk, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the ingredients are well combined and emulsified. This creates a smooth and homogenous mixture that will incorporate easily into the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients.
• Using a spatula or electric mixer on low speed, mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until you no longer see streaks of flour, but the batter is still slightly lumpy is acceptable.

Step 5: Prepare the Plum Topping

• In a small bowl, gently toss the halved and pitted plums with the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and cinnamon. This helps to draw out some of the plum juices and enhances their flavor. The sugar and cinnamon also create a lovely caramelized topping during baking.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake the Cake

• Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
• Arrange the sugared and cinnamon-coated plum halves on top of the batter, pressing them lightly into the surface. You can arrange them in a decorative pattern or simply scatter them evenly over the cake.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary depending on your oven and the depth of your pan. Start checking for doneness around 40 minutes and adjust the baking time as needed. The cake should be golden brown on top, and the edges should be pulling away slightly from the sides of the pan.

Step 7: Cool and Glaze (Optional)

• Let the cake cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the cake to set and prevents it from breaking apart when you remove it from the pan.
• While the cake is cooling, prepare the optional glaze if desired. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice (or milk) until smooth. Add more lemon juice or milk to reach your desired consistency. The glaze should be pourable but not too thin.
• Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

• Slice the Plum Poppy Seed Cake into squares or wedges and serve. Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of your homemade cake!

Nutrition Facts

Please note: The nutrition facts below are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and plum variety used. This information is for general guidance only.

Servings: Approximately 12-16 servings

Per Serving (estimated, based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 18-22g
  • Saturated Fat: 3-4g
• Cholesterol: 60-70mg
• Sodium: 200-250mg
• Carbohydrates: 45-55g
  • Sugar: 25-30g
  • Fiber: 1-2g
• Protein: 4-5g

This Plum Poppy Seed Cake, while delicious, is a dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time

The beauty of this Plum Poppy Seed Cake lies in its simplicity. It’s a relatively quick and easy cake to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight baking and weekend gatherings.

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes (This includes gathering ingredients, measuring, mixing batter, and preparing plums)
• Bake Time: 40-50 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1-2 hours (for complete cooling before glazing and serving)

Total Time (approximate): 2 hours – 2 hours 45 minutes

Most of the time is hands-off baking and cooling time, allowing you to multitask or relax while the cake is in the oven and cooling.

How to Serve

This Plum Poppy Seed Cake is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to suit different occasions and preferences. Its delightful flavor profile pairs well with several accompaniments.

• Warm with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream: Serving the cake slightly warm enhances its moistness and flavor. A scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, or even a swirl of Greek yogurt provides a cool and creamy contrast to the warm cake.
• With a dusting of powdered sugar: For a simple yet elegant presentation, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal without overpowering the cake’s natural flavors.
• Alongside a fruit compote or sauce: Enhance the plum flavor by serving the cake with a homemade plum compote or a mixed berry sauce. The fruitiness complements the cake beautifully and adds a touch of freshness.
• Paired with a hot beverage: Enjoy a slice of Plum Poppy Seed Cake with a cup of hot coffee, tea, or a latte. The warm beverage complements the cake’s flavors and makes for a comforting treat, especially on a cool day.
• As a dessert centerpiece: The cake is beautiful enough to be the star of your dessert table for gatherings and celebrations. Garnish with fresh plums or a sprig of rosemary or thyme for an extra touch of elegance.
• For brunch or afternoon tea: This cake is also a delightful addition to a brunch spread or afternoon tea party. Its not overly sweet profile makes it a perfect choice for these occasions.
• Layered in a trifle: Get creative and crumble leftover cake into a trifle layered with custard, whipped cream, and fresh fruit for a decadent dessert.

Additional Tips for Baking Perfection

To ensure your Plum Poppy Seed Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

1. Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and milk is crucial for proper emulsification and a smooth batter. Room temperature ingredients blend together more easily, creating a more homogenous mixture, which in turn results in a cake with a finer texture. Take your eggs and milk out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you start baking.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing develops gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough and dense cake. Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. A few streaks of flour are okay; they will disappear as you fold in the plums. Mixing until just combined is key to a tender crumb.
3. Use Ripe but Firm Plums: While you want your plums to be ripe for optimal flavor, avoid using overly soft or mushy plums. They may become too soft during baking and make the cake soggy. Plums that are slightly firm will hold their shape better and provide a pleasant texture contrast.
4. Toast Your Poppy Seeds (Optional but Recommended): Toasting poppy seeds enhances their nutty flavor and aroma. Spread the poppy seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Let them cool completely before adding them to the batter. Be careful not to burn them; they toast quickly.
5. Let the Cake Cool Completely Before Glazing: Patience is key! Ensure the cake is completely cooled before drizzling the glaze. If the cake is still warm, the glaze will melt and become runny, rather than setting beautifully on top. Cooling allows the cake structure to firm up, making it easier to handle and glaze.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about baking Plum Poppy Seed Cake:

Q1: Can I use frozen plums?

A1: While fresh plums are ideal for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen plums in a pinch. Make sure to thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before using them in the topping. Frozen plums may release more moisture during baking, so you might need to bake the cake for a slightly longer time.

Q2: Can I substitute the vegetable oil with butter?

A2: Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil with melted unsalted butter for a richer flavor. Use the same amount of melted butter as the vegetable oil in the recipe. Butter will add a different flavor profile and can slightly change the texture, making it a bit denser but still delicious.

Q3: I don’t have poppy seeds. Can I still make the cake?

A3: Yes, you can still make the cake without poppy seeds, but it will be a Plum Cake rather than a Plum Poppy Seed Cake. The poppy seeds add a distinct flavor and texture. If you want to substitute, you could try using other seeds like chia seeds or sesame seeds for a slightly different but still interesting twist.

Q4: How do I store Plum Poppy Seed Cake?

A4: Store leftover Plum Poppy Seed Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If storing in the refrigerator, bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. You can also freeze slices of the cake, well-wrapped, for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Q5: Can I make this cake gluten-free?

A5: Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by using a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the blend is designed for baking and contains xanthan gum or a similar binder. Gluten-free flours can sometimes absorb more liquid, so you might need to adjust the liquid slightly if the batter seems too thick. Always check the specific instructions on your gluten-free flour blend packaging.

Enjoy baking and savoring this delightful Plum Poppy Seed Cake! It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen, just as it has in mine.

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