There’s something truly magical about baking, isn’t there? The way the aroma of sweet spices fills the kitchen, and the anticipation builds as you wait for your creation to rise in the oven. Today, I’m excited to share my beloved spiced plum custard cake! It’s this rich, flavorful dessert that perfectly balances the tartness of plums with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. I remember the first time I made it; I was trying to impress some friends at a gathering. As soon as I pulled the cake out of the oven, the enticing scent wafted through the house, and my friends couldn’t wait to dig in. Trust me, every bite of this cake is a hug of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds! Get ready to embrace the joy of baking with this delightful treat!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the most delicious spiced plum custard cake. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups plums, chopped (about 4-5 medium plums, depending on size)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar (I love using granulated sugar for sweetness)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole milk gives the best flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
These ingredients come together to create a cake that is not only moist but bursting with flavor. Make sure you have everything ready to go before you start mixing! You’ll be amazed at the deliciousness that unfolds.
How to Prepare *Spiced Plum Custard Cake*
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the magic of making this spiced plum custard cake! It’s easier than you think, and the end result is absolutely worth every second spent in the kitchen.
Preheat and Prepare
First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, getting the oven ready is crucial for a perfectly baked cake! While that’s heating up, grab a 9-inch round cake pan and grease it well with butter or cooking spray to ensure that your cake slides out effortlessly later.
Mixing the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together your softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. I usually use an electric mixer here, but you can totally do it by hand—just be prepared to work those arms! Once it’s looking nice and airy, add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step is key for that rich texture. Now stir in the vanilla extract and milk until everything is combined and smooth. Mmm, can you smell that deliciousness?
Combining Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and spices throughout the cake. Once that’s done, gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. You don’t want to overmix; we’re aiming for a tender cake here!
Adding Plums and Baking
Now comes the fun part: folding in those gorgeous chopped plums! Gently stir them into the batter, making sure they’re evenly distributed. Then, pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. The anticipation will be worth it when you finally slice into that beautiful cake!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This spiced plum custard cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore making and sharing this delightful treat:
- Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this cake in the oven and your kitchen smelling heavenly in no time!
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of sweet plums and warm spices creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s sure to please.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This cake is a crowd-pleaser! Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together with friends, everyone will love it.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or at room temperature topped with whipped cream for an extra treat!
- Made with Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry, making it easy to whip up on a whim!
- Impressive Presentation: The beautiful look of this cake, with its vibrant plum pieces, makes it look like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.
Trust me, this cake will become a favorite in your recipe collection, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Tips for Success
To ensure your spiced plum custard cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps to create a smooth batter and ensures everything incorporates evenly.
- Don’t Overmix: When you combine your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is blended. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and nobody wants that!
- Check Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can be finicky! If you’ve got an oven thermometer, it’s worth checking to make sure it’s accurate. A cake baked at too high a temperature can burn on the outside while staying raw inside.
- Cool Properly: Let your cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps it hold its shape and prevents sticking.
- Experiment with Spices: If you want to add a little twist, feel free to experiment with other spices like cardamom or ginger for a different flavor profile.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it, but it’s best enjoyed at room temperature.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to bake an amazing spiced plum custard cake! Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of your treats is always helpful, right? Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information for each slice of this delicious spiced plum custard cake:
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 3g
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes, so consider this an estimate. It’s always nice to enjoy a slice of cake while keeping an eye on your nutritional goals!
FAQ Section
Here are some common questions I get about spiced plum custard cake. I hope these help you bake your best version yet!
Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Absolutely! While plums add a lovely flavor, you can substitute with peaches, nectarines, or even apples. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness depending on the fruit’s natural sugar content.
How should I store leftover cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer it chilled, you can refrigerate it, but let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it.
What can I serve with this cake?
This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. You could also serve it with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat!
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve baked your delicious spiced plum custard cake, it’s time to think about how to serve it for maximum enjoyment! Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your dessert experience:
- Whipped Cream: A classic pairing! Serve each slice with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. The lightness of the cream complements the rich flavors of the cake beautifully.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For those warm, cozy evenings, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warm slice is pure bliss. The melting ice cream will create a wonderful contrast with the spices.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce over your cake for an added touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation. It just takes it to another level!
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh fruit, like berries or sliced peaches, to add a refreshing element. The fruitiness will enhance the plum flavor and brighten up your plate.
- Tea or Coffee: This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of your favorite tea or a nice strong coffee. The warmth of the beverage will complement the spices and make for a delightful afternoon treat.
These serving suggestions will not only enhance your spiced plum custard cake but also create a delightful experience for you and your guests. Enjoy every bite!
Print
Spiced Plum Custard Cake: 5 Irresistible Moments to Savor
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and flavorful spiced plum custard cake.
Ingredients
- 2 cups plums, chopped
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar together.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and milk.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and spices.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stir until combined.
- Fold in the chopped plums.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Top with whipped cream for extra flavor.
- This cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: spiced plum custard cake