Lemon Plum Cake

This delightful dessert combines the tangy zest of lemon with the sweetness of ripe plums, resulting in a cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a delicious tea-time treat or a show-stopping dessert for a family gathering, this lemon-infused plum cake will become a favourite. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter and dust it lightly with flour, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

This will ensure that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The creaming process is essential for incorporating air into the batter, which helps make the cake light and tender. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Then, mix in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. The combination of lemon zest and juice will infuse the batter with a bright, citrusy flavour. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture. This technique helps prevent the batter from becoming too dense. Mix until just combined; avoid over-mixing, as this can make the cake tough.

Gently fold in the chopped plums using a spatula. The plums add a burst of fruity sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tart lemon flavour. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the cake in the final minutes.

While the cake is baking, make the lemon glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. If you prefer a thinner glaze, add a little milk until you reach the desired consistency. Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cake is cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides for a beautiful presentation.

Slice the lemon plum cake and serve it as a delightful dessert or a delicious snack with tea or coffee. The moist, tender crumb and the refreshing combination of lemon and plum make this cake irresistible. This Lemon Plum Cake recipe is perfect for those who love a burst of citrus flavour paired with the natural sweetness of plums. It’s an easy, homemade cake that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.