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Rustic Plum Lavender Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the sweet and tart flavors of ripe plums with the floral notes of lavender. This cake is perfect for summer gatherings, tea parties, or simply as a treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee. The unique combination of ingredients not only makes it delicious but also visually appealing, making it a wonderful centerpiece for any occasion. In this recipe, we will guide you through the process of creating this scrumptious cake, ensuring that even novice bakers can achieve impressive results.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon culinary lavender, finely chopped
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 2 cups ripe plums, pitted and sliced
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and chopped lavender.
- Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in Plums: Gently fold the sliced plums into the batter, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
FAQs
Can I use frozen plums for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen plums. Just make sure to thaw and drain them properly before adding them to the batter to avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing ½ cup of milk with ½ tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
How do I store leftover Rustic Plum Lavender Cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for longer storage.
Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other fruits such as peaches, cherries, or even berries. Just adjust the quantity based on the fruit’s sweetness and moisture content.
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