Plum cake

A type of cake made with dried fruits and spices

Plum cake is a type of cake made with dried fruits and spices, and often soaked in spirits. It is a traditional cake in many countries and is especially popular during the Christmas season. Despite its name, plum cake does not necessarily contain plums; the term "plum" in the name refers to the pre-Victorian use of the word to denote raisins or other dried fruits.

History

The origins of plum cake can be traced back to the early Middle Ages when dried fruits and spices were first introduced to Europe from the Middle East. These ingredients were expensive and considered a luxury, often reserved for special occasions. Over time, the recipe evolved, and by the 18th century, plum cake had become a popular dessert in England.

Ingredients

Plum cake recipes vary widely, but they typically include a mixture of dried fruits such as raisins, currants, sultanas, and prunes. The cake is often flavored with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Many recipes also call for the fruits to be soaked in brandy or rum for several days before baking, which enhances the flavor and preserves the cake.

Common Ingredients

• Dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas, prunes)
• Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves)
• Alcohol (brandy, rum)
• Butter
• Sugar
• Flour
• Eggs
• Baking powder

Preparation

The preparation of plum cake involves several steps. First, the dried fruits are soaked in alcohol for a few days to enhance their flavor. The butter and sugar are creamed together until light and fluffy, and then eggs are added one at a time. The flour and baking powder are sifted together and folded into the mixture. Finally, the soaked fruits and spices are added, and the batter is poured into a prepared cake tin.

The cake is typically baked at a low temperature for a long period to ensure even cooking. Once baked, it is often wrapped in parchment paper and stored in an airtight container to mature for several weeks, allowing the flavors to develop further.

Variations

Plum cake has many regional variations. In Germany, it is known as Pflaumenkuchen and is made with fresh plums. In India, plum cake is a popular Christmas treat, often made with cashews and almonds in addition to dried fruits. In the Caribbean, black cake is a type of plum cake that is darkened with burnt sugar and heavily spiced.

Cultural Significance

Plum cake is traditionally associated with Christmas and is often served during the holiday season. In many cultures, it is customary to bake the cake weeks in advance and allow it to mature, enhancing its rich flavors. It is also a popular choice for weddings and other celebrations.

Related pages

• Fruitcake
• Christmas cake
• Black cake
• Baking