Do you ever crave a sweet treat that is both light and indulgent, a simple yet sophisticated dessert to impress your guests or to enjoy on a cozy afternoon at home? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Hefe Pflaumenkuchen. An elegant German plum cake made with a yeasted dough that bakes up airy and tender, topped with fresh plums and a touch of cinnamon sugar. Let’s dive into this scrumptious creation that will fill your home with the warm, irresistible aroma of freshly baked goodness.
Hefe Pflaumenkuchen
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
– 5-6 ripe plums, pitted and sliced
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
4. Gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of flour while kneading the dough until it is smooth and elastic.
5. Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
7. Punch down the dough and transfer it to the prepared cake pan, gently pressing it to cover the bottom.
8. Arrange the plum slices on top of the dough in a decorative pattern.
9. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture over the plums.
10. Bake the Hefe Pflaumenkuchen for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the dough comes out clean.
11. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for a touch of sweetness and a beautiful finish.
This Hefe Pflaumenkuchen is a true delight for the senses, offering a perfect balance of tangy plums, fragrant cinnamon, and pillowy soft dough. Whether you share it with friends over afternoon coffee or savor a slice with a dollop of whipped cream as an evening treat, this German plum cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. The process of creating this delectable dessert is as enjoyable as the end result, filling your home with the comforting scents of a European bakery. Embrace the art of baking and bring a slice of Germany to your kitchen with this wonderful recipe.
