This classic Plum Cake is rich, soft, and packed with sweet dried plums and warm aromatic spices. Every slice delivers a delicious balance of fruity sweetness, buttery richness, and comforting seasonal flavors. Whether served during festive celebrations, afternoon tea, or as a special homemade treat, this plum cake stays wonderfully moist and tastes even better the next day.
Recipe Information
| Details | Value |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 Minutes |
| Soaking Time | 30 Minutes |
| Cook Time | 70 Minutes |
| Total Time | 2 Hours |
| Servings | 10–12 Slices |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Ingredients
For the Plum Cake
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups (240g) dried plums (prunes), chopped
- 1 cup (160g) mixed dried fruits (optional)
- ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup (120ml) liquid milk or orange juice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon mixed spice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon orange or lemon zest
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and moist texture
- Loaded with flavorful dried fruits
- Warm spices in every bite
- Perfect for holidays and special occasions
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Soak the Fruits
Place the chopped dried plums and mixed dried fruits in a bowl.
Pour the warm milk or orange juice over the fruits and let them soak for 20–30 minutes. This helps soften the fruit and enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light, creamy, and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract and orange or lemon zest.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Mixed spice
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
Mix until evenly combined.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture.
Add the soaked fruits along with any remaining soaking liquid.
Mix gently until everything is evenly distributed. The batter will be thick and packed with fruit.
Step 5: Prepare for Baking
Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it well.
Transfer the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 65–80 minutes.
If the top begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover the cake with aluminum foil during the final part of baking.
The cake is ready when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing. This helps develop the texture and makes cleaner slices.
Pro Tips
✔ Soaking the fruits in orange juice creates a richer, more festive flavor.
✔ For extra moisture, soak the fruits overnight.
✔ Use room-temperature butter and eggs for a smoother batter.
✔ Allow the cake to rest for several hours before serving for enhanced flavor.
✔ Add chopped walnuts, almonds, or pecans for extra texture.
Storage
Room Temperature
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Refrigerator
Keeps fresh for up to 1 week.
Freezer
Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Serve warm with a little butter.
- Pair with whipped cream for a festive dessert.
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar before serving.
