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### **Instructions:**
#### 1. **Prepare the Oven and Cake Pan:**
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. You can also use a springform pan if you prefer an elegant presentation.
#### 2. **Prepare the Plums:**
Slice your plums into thin wedges, removing the pits. Toss the plum slices with the tablespoon of lemon juice to keep them from browning and to enhance their flavor. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
#### 3. **Mix the Dry Ingredients:**
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Stir the ingredients together and set the bowl aside.
#### 4. **Cream the Butter and Sugar:**
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or a whisk until light and fluffy. This will take about 3-5 minutes, and it’s important to make sure the butter and sugar are well incorporated for a smooth batter.
#### 5. **Add the Eggs and Vanilla:**
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix to combine. This will give the cake its aromatic depth.
#### 6. **Incorporate the Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream:**
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and sour cream into the wet mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser cake. The batter will be thick and creamy.
#### 7. **Fold in the Plums:**
Carefully fold the sliced plums into the batter, being careful not to break them up too much. You want the plums to be evenly distributed throughout the cake for a burst of flavor in each bite.
#### 8. **Transfer to Cake Pan:**
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. The batter may seem a little thick, but it will spread out nicely during baking.
#### 9. **Make the Topping:**
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon (if using) and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the cake batter. This will give the cake a sweet, caramelized crust as it bakes.
#### 10. **Bake the Cake:**
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (or with just a few crumbs). The cake should have a lovely, light texture, and the plums will release their juices, creating pockets of sweetness throughout.
#### 11. **Cool and Serve:**
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once it has cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar for a delicate finishing touch.
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### **Why You’ll Love The Enchanted Plum Cake:**
– **Magical Flavor Balance:** The **sweet-tart plums** provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery cake, making each bite feel like a treat. The lemon juice not only prevents the plums from browning but enhances their natural flavors, creating a delicate balance between fruity and sweet.
– **Moist and Tender:** Thanks to the sour cream (or yogurt), this cake remains incredibly moist and soft, giving it a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The added moisture from the plums keeps the cake from drying out, even on the second day.
– **Beautiful Presentation:** This cake looks as stunning as it tastes. The bright, ruby-red plums create a visually appealing contrast against the golden cake, and the optional dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance. It’s the perfect centerpiece for any dessert table.
– **Versatile:** The Enchanted Plum Cake can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert, or enjoy it as a lighter treat with a cup of tea or coffee. It’s the kind of cake that fits every occasion, from casual get-togethers to more formal gatherings.
– **Perfect for Seasonal Fruit:** Plums are at their peak during late summer and early fall, making this cake the perfect way to showcase this delicious stone fruit. You can also experiment with different seasonal fruits—like peaches or nectarines—when plums aren’t available.
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### **Tips for the Perfect Enchanted Plum Cake:**
– **Use Ripe Plums:** Choose plums that are ripe but firm. Overripe plums may become mushy during baking, while under-ripe plums won’t release their full flavor. The best plums are those with vibrant skin color and a slight give when gently pressed.
– **Let the Cake Cool Completely:** While it might be tempting to cut into the cake right away, allowing it to cool completely gives the flavors time to set and enhances the texture. If you want the cake to hold its shape better when slicing, let it cool on a wire rack.
– **Serve with a Touch of Whipped Cream:** For an extra indulgent touch, serve slices of this cake with lightly sweetened whipped cream. The airy cream complements the dense cake and juicy plums perfectly.
– **Add a Splash of Alcohol:** If you want to elevate the flavors, you can add a tablespoon of brandy or rum to the batter for a subtle, warming kick.
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### **Conclusion:**
The **Enchanted Plum Cake** is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. From the fragrant aroma of cinnamon and vanilla to the juicy sweetness of plums baked into a rich, buttery cake, each bite is nothing short of magical. Whether you’re looking to impress at a dinner party or simply treat yourself to a comforting dessert, this cake will make every moment feel special.
So, gather your ingredients, summon the magic, and indulge in a slice of this delicious, enchanting cake. It’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the charm of **The Enchanted Plum Cake** and let its delightful flavors sweep you off your feet!
