Plum Cake: A Festive Classic Plum cake is a rich, moist holiday treat packed with dried fruits, nuts, warm spices, and a hint of booze (or fruit juice for a non-alcoholic twist). With its deep flavors and tender texture, it’s a beloved dessert that tastes even better as it matures. Perfect for festive celebrations or cozy gatherings
Mix fruitsRaisins, dates, tuti fruiti, cashews, almonds and so on
Cinnamon powderFive Spice powder also can be used
Vanilla essence
RumOr fruit juice
Mix fruit essenceLemon + vanilla + pineapple ( a little ) essence but optional
Caramel
Dates
Instructions
Soak the Fruits
Chop your dried fruits into small pieces if needed.
Place them in a bowl and pour in the rum, brandy, or juice.
Cover and let them soak for at least 12–24 hours. Longer soaking (up to a week) gives a richer flavor! Or even during Thanksgiving day !
Prep Your Baking Pan and Oven
Grease a 9-inch round or square pan with butter. Line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Set your oven to 325°F (160°C). Low and slow is the secret to plum cake perfection.
Make the Batter
Caramelize Sugar : Heat ¼ cup of sugar in a pan over medium heat until it melts and turns deep amber. Add 2 tablespoons of water and stir until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
Mix the Wet Ingredients : Cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Incorporate the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and spices. Gradually fold this into the wet mixture. Stir in the caramelized sugar
Fold in the Fruits and Nuts
Toss your soaked fruits with a tablespoon of flour (this helps them distribute evenly in the batter). Gently fold the fruits and chopped nuts into the batter.
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake and Cool
Bake at 190 degree celsius for 40 minutes then check again if needed more 5 minutes. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Top with powdered sugar, glazed cherries, or marzipan for a festive touch.
Author: The Gourmet Palette
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: England, Europe
Keyword: authentic plum cake recipe, Christmas cake, Christmas fruit cake recipe, plum cake authentic, plum cake recipe, recioe for fruit cake