Nigella Plum And Almond Cake
Delve into the delightful world of Nigella Lawson's Plum and Almond Cake, a perfect blend of sweet plums and nutty almonds. This cake is not just a dessert; it's a celebration of flavors that promises to brighten up any tea table or festive gathering. The original recipe, a testament to Nigella Lawson's culinary prowess, is featured in her book "How To Be A Domestic Goddess" and showcases her ability to transform simple ingredients into something utterly magnificent.
Ingredients for the Plum and Almond Cake
- Unsalted butter: 175g, softened to ensure a smooth batter.
- Plums: 300g, halved and prepared in slices and dices for varied texture.
- Golden caster sugar: 150g, for that perfect sweetness.
- Eggs: 3, to bind the ingredients together.
- Almond extract: 1 tsp, to enhance the almond flavor.
- Self-raising flour: 125g, for a light and fluffy texture.
- Ground almonds: 100g, adding to the nuttiness.
- Flaked almonds: 2 tbsp, for a crunchy topping.
- Plum conserve: 2 tbsp, adding a glossy and fruity finish.
How to Make the Plum and Almond Cake
- Preparation: Start by preheating your oven and prepping your cake tin with butter and baking parchment. Prepare your plums by dicing and slicing them.
- Mixing the batter: Cream together softened butter and sugar until fluffy, then gradually beat in the eggs and almond extract. Incorporate the flour and ground almonds into this mixture.
- Baking: After layering the base of your tin with some batter, fold in the diced plums with the rest of the mixture, top with plum wedges, and bake. This cake requires a careful eye to ensure it's perfectly done.
- Finishing touches: Toast flaked almonds until golden and create a glaze with plum conserve to brush over the cooled cake for that extra special touch.
Storage and Reheating
This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. If it lasts longer than that, consider refrigerating it to maintain its freshness. For reheating, a short blast in the microwave will bring out its flavors, though it's best enjoyed at room temperature.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this cake offers a balance of sweetness and nuttiness, with an approximate energy content of 481 kcals, alongside 30g of fat, 41g of carbohydrates, and 9g of protein. It's a treat that should be enjoyed in moderation within a balanced diet.
FAQ about the Plum and Almond Cake
Q: Can I use different types of plums? A: Absolutely, feel free to use any variety of plums you have available.
Q: Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free? A: Yes, by substituting the self-raising flour with a gluten-free alternative and ensuring your baking powder is gluten-free.
Q: Can I freeze this cake? A: Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in clingfilm and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost thoroughly before serving.
Embarking on this baking journey not only offers a slice of Nigella Lawson's culinary excellence but also provides a heartwarming experience as you bring the essence of her kitchen into your home. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the oven mitts, this Plum and Almond Cake is sure to delight and impress.
For more detailed instructions and insights into Nigella Lawson's recipes, visit her official website or look into her book "How To Be A Domestic Goddess".