Rich Plum Cake. Recipe

Rich Plum Cake Recipe

History:
Plum cake has a long history dating back to ancient Rome, where a mixture of fruits, nuts, and honey was baked into a cake-like dessert. Over the years, the recipe evolved, and plum cake became a popular treat during festive occasions, especially in Europe. In England, it was traditionally made for Christmas celebrations and weddings. The term "plum" in plum cake doesn't necessarily refer to the fruit but is a general term for dried fruits such as raisins, currants, and sultanas. The recipe for Rich Plum Cake is an adaptation of the traditional English plum cake, which is rich, moist, and bursting with fruity flavors.

Fun Facts:
1. Despite the name, plum cake rarely contains actual plums. The term "plum" historically referred to any dried fruit.
2. In the 17th century, it was common to call all dried fruits "plums" because they were imported from the Middle East via Prunes, a French word.
3. Plum cake was often baked well in advance to allow it to mature and develop its flavors. Some recipes suggest aging it for weeks or even months before consumption.

Rich Plum Cake Recipe:

Ingredients:
- 1 pound (454g) butter
- 1 pound (454g) sifted loaf sugar
- 1 pound (454g) fine flour
- 10 large eggs, separated
- 1/2 nutmeg, grated
- 1 pound (454g) well-washed currants
- 1/2 pound (227g) mixed candied peels, cut small
- 1 glass of brandy

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy using an electric mixer or by hand.
3. Gradually add the sifted loaf sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks.
5. In another bowl, beat the egg yolks until smooth and thin.
6. Gently fold in the beaten egg whites and egg yolks into the butter and sugar mixture.
7. Gradually add the grated nutmeg and fine flour, mixing well after each addition.
8. Stir in the well-washed currants and mixed candied peels.
9. Add the glass of brandy and stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
10. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake tin, ensuring even coverage.
11. Pour the cake batter into the prepared tin, spreading it evenly.
12. Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately two hours. To ensure the cake is cooked thoroughly, insert a skewer into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
13. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for 10-15 minutes.
14. Transfer the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Serve the rich plum cake as a festive centerpiece or as a delightful treat with a cup of tea or coffee. The cake's rich, fruity flavor and moist texture make it a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

1. Fruitcake: Like plum cake, fruitcake is a dense and flavorful cake made with various dried fruits, nuts, and spices. However, fruitcake typically includes a wider variety of fruits, such as cherries, pineapple, dates, and figs, along with candied peels and nuts. It is often soaked in alcohol, similar to plum cake, to preserve and enhance the flavors. Fruitcakes are also commonly enjoyed during Christmas holidays.

2. Christmas Pudding: Though not a cake in the traditional sense, Christmas pudding shares similarities with plum cake. It is a steamed or boiled dessert made with suet, breadcrumbs, sugar, spices, and a variety of dried fruits like currants, raisins, and sultanas. Christmas puddings are often made well in advance and left to mature, just like plum cakes, and are served during the festive season with a rich brandy or rum sauce.

3. Dundee Cake: This traditional Scottish fruit cake is similar to plum cake but with a few variations. It is made with almond paste and has a distinct topping of almonds that toast to a beautiful golden brown during baking. Dundee cake is typically enjoyed during tea time or as a delicious addition to any celebration.

In conclusion, the rich plum cake recipe is a delightful variation of the traditional fruit cake, boasting a rich and moist texture, enhanced by the flavors of currants, candied peels, and a touch of brandy. Whether enjoyed during festive seasons, as a centerpiece for special occasions, or as a tasty treat with a cup of tea, this plum cake is sure to impress your family and friends.

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