Plum Cake with Nut Crumble: A Sweet and Crunchy Dessert

Plum Cake with Nut Crumble: A Sweet and Crunchy Dessert

This plum cake with nut crumble is the perfect dessert for those who love the combination of juicy fruit and a crunchy topping. The natural sweetness of ripe plums blends beautifully with the buttery, nutty crumble, creating a dessert that’s as satisfying to eat as it is to prepare. Ideal for family gatherings or a cozy treat at home, this cake brings a rich blend of flavors and textures to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk or buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4-5 ripe plums, pitted and sliced

For the Nut Crumble:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
• ¼ cup cold butter, cubed

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square baking pan, or line it with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the cake after baking.

2. Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.

3. Arrange the Plums

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Arrange the plum slices on top of the batter in a decorative pattern. The plums will soften and become juicy as they bake, adding moisture and flavor to the cake.

4. Make the Nut Crumble

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and chopped nuts. Add the cold, cubed butter, and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the nut crumble evenly over the plums and cake batter.

5. Bake the Cake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean and the top is golden brown. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Perfect Plum Cake

1. Choose Ripe Plums: Select ripe but firm plums for the best flavor and texture. Overripe plums may become too mushy during baking, while unripe ones may lack sweetness.

2. Customize the Nut Crumble: Feel free to mix and match nuts for a unique flavor profile. Almonds, walnuts, and pecans each add a distinct taste and texture to the topping.

3. Use Cold Butter for the Crumble: Cold butter is essential for a crumbly topping, as it helps create a crunchy texture. Be sure to cut the butter into small cubes for easier mixing.

4. Experiment with Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the crumble adds warmth and depth, making the cake even more inviting.

Serving Suggestions

This plum cake with nut crumble can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Here are a few serving ideas to enhance your experience:

• With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a creamy contrast to the fruity and crunchy cake.
• With Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• With Fresh Berries: A handful of fresh berries adds color and a burst of flavor that complements the plums and nuts.

Storing and Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five days. For the best texture, reheat slices in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes to refresh the crumble topping.

Variations to Try

1. Add a Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter for a bright citrus flavor that complements the sweetness of the plums.

2. Use Other Fruits: Try substituting plums with other stone fruits like peaches, apricots, or nectarines for a seasonal twist on this recipe.

3. Chocolate Chips in the Crumble: For a sweeter variation, add a handful of chocolate chips to the nut crumble. The chocolate adds richness and pairs well with the flavors of plums and nuts.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This plum cake with nut crumble is a versatile dessert that suits any occasion, from family dinners to casual get-togethers. Its blend of soft, juicy plums and crunchy topping makes it a crowd-pleaser, while the recipe’s simplicity makes it approachable for home bakers. You can enjoy it warm with toppings like whipped cream or ice cream, or serve it on its own as a delightful snack. Whether enjoyed fresh or made a day ahead, this cake stays moist and flavorful, highlighting the best of seasonal fruits and nuts.

Conclusion

This plum cake with nut crumble is a delightful dessert that combines the natural juiciness of plums with a rich, nutty topping. The cake is easy to make, versatile, and perfect for sharing, whether it’s for a weekend gathering or simply a treat at home. Each bite offers a balance of tender cake, sweet plums, and crunchy nuts, making this recipe a memorable addition to your baking repertoire. Enjoy every slice of this comforting, homemade cake!