Kerala plum cake is a traditional Christmas favorite, famous for its rich flavors and moist texture. This fruit cake, packed with dried fruits and nuts soaked in rum, carries a unique aroma that fills your kitchen with holiday cheer. If you want to bake an authentic Kerala plum cake at home, here is a detailed, easy-to-follow recipe with step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients for Kerala Plum Cake
Before starting, gather all the ingredients. The key to a great plum cake lies in quality ingredients and proper preparation.
For soaking fruits:
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates, cherries)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (cashews, almonds, walnuts)
- ½ cup rum or brandy
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
For the cake batter:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar (preferably dark)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup milk or fresh cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Prepare the Fruit Soak
The fruit soak is crucial to the taste and texture of the plum cake. Soaking the dried fruits and nuts in rum or brandy allows them to absorb moisture and flavors, making the cake moist and rich.
- Take a clean jar or bowl and add the mixed dried fruits, chopped nuts, and orange zest.
- Pour in the rum or brandy, ensuring the fruits are completely submerged.
- Cover the jar and let the mixture soak for at least 3 days. For the best results, soak for a week in the refrigerator, stirring occasionally.
Step-by-Step Cake Preparation
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 150 degrees Celsius (300 degrees Fahrenheit). Grease a 9-inch loaf or cake pan with butter and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the batter, helping the cake rise.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract. This gives the cake a rich aroma and enhances the flavor.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift the all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Sifting helps combine the spices evenly and avoids lumps.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the milk or fresh cream. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix gently to avoid over-beating, which can make the cake tough.
Step 6: Fold in Soaked Fruits and Nuts
Drain the soaked fruits and nuts to remove excess liquid, then fold them gently into the cake batter. Make sure the fruits are well distributed without overmixing the batter.
Step 7: Transfer to Pan and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes. Check the cake by inserting a skewer or toothpick; it should come out clean when done.
Step 8: Cool and Store
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled completely, wrap the cake in aluminum foil or store in an airtight container. For the best taste, allow the cake to mature for 2 to 3 days before slicing.
Tips for the Perfect Kerala Plum Cake
- Use good quality dried fruits and nuts for better flavor and texture.
- Freshly grate the orange zest for a bright citrus aroma.
- Soak the fruits longer if you want a moister cake.
- Avoid opening the oven frequently during baking to maintain consistent heat.
- You can brush the baked cake with a little rum or brandy for extra moisture and aroma.
Why Kerala Plum Cake Is Special
Kerala plum cake stands out due to its rich use of spices, the balance of sweetness from brown sugar, and the rum-soaked fruits that give it a distinctive moistness. Unlike typical fruit cakes, Kerala plum cake often features cashews and uses warm spices that reflect Kerala’s unique culinary heritage. This cake is not just a dessert but a festive tradition enjoyed across homes during Christmas and special occasions.
Serving Suggestions
Kerala plum cake pairs beautifully with a cup of black tea or coffee. You can serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream. Some prefer a thin spread of butter to enhance the richness. It also works great as a gift during the holiday season because it keeps well and tastes better with time.
Final Thoughts
Baking Kerala plum cake at home is a rewarding experience that brings a slice of Kerala’s festive spirit into your kitchen. Following the step-by-step instructions will help you achieve a moist, flavorful fruit cake with every bake. Remember, patience with soaking the fruits and gentle mixing are keys to success. Try this recipe this holiday season for a delicious, homemade treat everyone will love.
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