Plum Poppy Seed Cake

Plum Poppy Seed Cake

15 servings
Don’t let the simplicity of this recipe fool you. This craveable plum poppy seed cake impresses with understated elegance.

Ingredients

  • sugar
    1 c
  • eggs

    room temperature

    4 large
  • canola oil or grapeseed oil
    1 c
  • grated orange zest
    1 tbsp
  • vanilla extract
    1 tsp
  • all-purpose flour
    2 c
  • baking powder
    2 tsp
  • ground cinnamon
    1 tsp
  • salt
    ½ tsp
  • poppy seeds
    3 tbsp
  • plums

    sliced, about 1 pound

    5 small
  • confectioners' sugar

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350°. In a large bowl, beat sugar, eggs and oil until lemon-colored and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Beat in orange zest and vanilla.

  2. 2

    In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, cinnamon and salt; fold into egg mixture. Stir in poppy seeds. Transfer to a greased 13x9-in. baking pan, spreading evenly. Arrange plum slices over batter (do not press into batter).

  3. 3

    Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, 40-45 minutes. Cool in pan on a wire rack. Sprinkle with confectioners' sugar and additional cinnamon before serving.

Plum Poppy Seed Cake

Plum Poppy Seed Cake

60 min15 servings284 cal

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About this Recipe

Discover the Elegance of Plum Poppy Seed Cake

Prepare to be utterly charmed by this Plum Poppy Seed Cake, a dessert that proves simplicity can be profoundly elegant. Don't let its humble appearance fool you; each bite of this moist plum cake delivers an unforgettable experience. It's the perfect treat for a weekend brunch, a sophisticated dinner party, or simply an afternoon pick-me-up with a cup of tea. With just 20 minutes of prep, you'll be on your way to enjoying this craveable creation.

What makes this cake so special? It's a delightful symphony of textures and flavors. The cake itself boasts an incredibly tender, moist crumb, thanks to the oil, allowing the other ingredients to truly shine. Bursting with seasonal goodness, the sweet-tart slices of fresh plums soften beautifully during baking, creating pockets of fruity delight. The subtle crunch and nutty notes of poppy seeds add a wonderful dimension, while a hint of orange zest brightens the entire profile. It's a harmonious balance that makes this easy plum dessert a true standout.

Tips for Baking Your Best Plum Poppy Seed Cake

Achieving perfection with your Plum Poppy Seed Cake is simple with a few helpful tips:

  • Choose Your Plums Wisely: Opt for ripe but firm plums. Varieties like Italian plums, Santa Rosa, or Black Splendor work beautifully. They'll hold their shape better while baking and offer that perfect tart counterpoint.
  • Neutral Oil is Key: Using canola or grapeseed oil ensures a very moist cake without imparting any strong flavors, allowing the plums and poppy seeds to be the stars.
  • Spice Variations: While cinnamon adds a lovely warmth, feel free to experiment! A touch of ground cardamom or nutmeg could also be fantastic, especially if you enjoy a more spiced fruit cake.

Serving Suggestions

Once your Plum Poppy Seed Cake has cooled, a simple dusting of confectioners' sugar is all it needs to look utterly inviting. For an extra touch of indulgence, serve slices warm with a dollop of crème fraîche, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or a light drizzle of honey. It's truly versatile and delicious on its own or enhanced with your favorite accompaniments. This poppy seed cake is sure to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions