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A plum cake is a type of cake that traditionally contains dried fruits, such as raisins, currants, and sometimes candied fruits, but surprisingly, it doesn’t usually contain plums. The name “plum cake” is historical and stems from the fact that in older times, the term “plum” referred to a variety of dried fruits, not just the specific fruit we know as a plum today.
Key characteristics of a plum cake:
Dried Fruits: The defining feature of a plum cake is its inclusion of various dried fruits. These can include raisins, currants, sultanas, candied citrus peel, dried apricots, and sometimes even dried cherries. The dried fruits are often soaked in alcohol, such as brandy or rum, to plump them up and infuse them with flavor.
Spices: Plum cakes are typically spiced with warm and aromatic flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. These spices contribute to the cake’s rich and festive aroma.
Nuts: Some variations of plum cake also include chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Nuts add texture and flavor to the cake.
Batter: The cake batter is usually made with ingredients like flour, butter, sugar, eggs, and sometimes molasses. The soaked dried fruits, spices, and nuts are incorporated into the batter.
Baking: The cake is baked at a relatively low temperature for a longer period of time, resulting in a dense and moist texture.
Aging: Many plum cake recipes call for aging the cake by periodically brushing it with alcohol, which not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the cake’s longevity.
Decorating: Once the cake is baked and aged, it can be decorated in various ways. Some plum cakes are frosted or glazed, while others are left plain and dusted with powdered sugar.
Holiday Tradition: Like Christmas fruit cakes, plum cakes have a history deeply intertwined with holiday traditions, and they are often associated with festive celebrations and family gatherings.
It’s worth noting that while the name “plum cake” might seem misleading to those expecting actual plums, the cake’s popularity and tradition have persisted over time. Variations of plum cakes can be found in different cultures, each with its own unique twists and ingredients. The cake’s dense texture, rich flavor, and combination of dried fruits, nuts, and spices make it a beloved treat during the holiday season and beyond.
1. For Caramel syrup
2. Dry fruits soaked
Total dry fruit mix = 2 cups
3. Dry ingredients
4. Wet ingredients
1. Preparing caramel
2. Preparing dry fruit mix
4. Mixing of dry ingredients
3. Preparing wet ingredients
4. Preparation of Plum cake
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