Homemade Rustic Plum and Apple Cake: A Heartwarming Treat
As the days take on the hues of autumn and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing more comforting than welcoming your loved ones with a slice of homemade sweetness. Picture the warm and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen as you prepare a rustic cake that brings together the natural sweetness of dried plums and the crisp tartness of apples.
I still remember when my grandma used to open the kitchen window to let in the fresh morning air, while the oven was already at work, pampering us with the scents of her cake. It was the signal that soon we would have a taste of those simple but unforgettable flavors, enclosed in a golden treasure of soft and fragrant pastry.
Today, it’s your turn to recreate that magic. With simple ingredients like wholemeal flour, fresh eggs, and creamy butter, you can create a soft and welcoming base for your softened plums and thinly sliced apple. And if you want to add that special touch? A pinch of cinnamon or vanilla in the dough will transform this delight into a sensory journey through warm and enveloping aromatic notes.
Get ready to amaze: this cake is not only a pleasure for the palate but also a feast for the eyes when it’s embellished with a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving. It’s time to roll up your sleeves: the culinary adventure is about to begin!
Recipe Notes
- EASE: Easy to make with common ingredients.
- PROS: Perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
- CONS: Lengthy cooking time.
- PREPARATION: Takes about 20 minutes to prepare.
- NUTRITION NOTES: Approximately 601 Kcal per serving.
Notes on the recipe’s ingredients
- Whole wheat flour: packed with fiber and essential nutrients for a healthy diet
- Dried plums: sweet and loaded with antioxidants and minerals
- Apples: bring a refreshing burst of fiber and vitamins to the rustic cake
- Sultana raisins: add sweetness and softness to the dough
Nutritional Aspects
Let’s discover the benefits of this delicious rustic plum and apple pie:
- Rich in fiber thanks to wholemeal flour and fruit.
- Packed with vitamins and minerals from the dried plums and fresh apples.
- The sultanas add a natural energy boost.
- Abundant in antioxidants found in the fruit used.
- Provides protein from the eggs in the batter.
- A tempting treat for those with a sweet tooth and a focus on well-being!
Recipe for Rustic Cake with Plums and Apples
Instructions
- Start by soaking the prunes and raisins in lukewarm water to soften them.
- In a bowl, cream the butter with the sugar until soft and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolks one at a time, continuing to mix well after each addition.
- Gradually fold in the sifted wholemeal flour and baking powder, stirring gently to keep the mixture soft.
- Whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form and fold them into the mixture, stirring from bottom to top to avoid deflating them.
- Pour the mixture into a pre-greased or parchment-lined cake tin.
- Drain the prunes and raisins from the water and distribute them on the surface of the mixture.
- Peel the apples, slice them thinly, and arrange them on top of the mixture along with the prunes and raisins.
- Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about an hour or until golden and well cooked in the center.
- Remove the rustic cake from the oven, let it cool slightly, and dust it with icing sugar before serving.
Notes
Variations of the Rustic Plum and Apple Pie Recipe
Add your own twist to your rustic pie!
- Include chopped walnuts in the dough for a crunchy and nutritious touch.
- Swap the plums with dried apricots for a more delicate variation.
- Try using pears instead of apples for a slightly different flavor.
- Sprinkle some ground ginger for a spicy and aromatic touch.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Recipe
If you have any doubts or questions about making the rustic pie, you’ll find answers to your most common curiosities here.
How can I store the rustic pie?
You can store the pie in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for a week.
Can I substitute the dried plums with a different type of dried fruit?
Yes, you can substitute the dried plums with dried apricots, figs, or raisins, depending on your taste and availability.
How can I make the rustic pie lighter in terms of calories?
You can reduce the amount of butter and sugar and use sweeter apples to balance the sweet taste of the pie without compromising the texture.
