Easy Plum Cake Yogurt Perfect for Summer Gatherings
Need a healthier dessert option? Plum cake yogurt uses yogurt to reduce fat while keeping incredible moisture. Guilt-free treat
Imagine biting into a slice of heaven where sweet, juicy plums meet the creamy tang of yogurt in perfect harmony. This plum cake yogurt recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dessert that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Here’s a fun fact: adding yogurt to cake batter was first popularized in Mediterranean cuisine, where bakers discovered it creates the most incredibly moist texture while adding a subtle tang that complements fruit beautifully.
This recipe is special because it’s foolproof, ready in under an hour, and uses pantry staples you likely already have. Unlike our popular lemon drizzle cake, this plum version offers a more sophisticated flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults. Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite summer dessert!
Table of Contents
What is Plum Cake Yogurt?
Ever wondered why we call it “plum cake yogurt” instead of just “plum cake”? Well, the yogurt isn’t just an add-in – it’s the star ingredient that makes this cake incredibly special! This isn’t your grandmother’s heavy fruit cake that sits like a brick in your stomach.
The yogurt creates a light, fluffy texture while the plums burst with natural sweetness in every bite. As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this cake definitely proves that theory right! Ready to discover why this simple combination creates pure magic?
Why You’ll Love This Plum Cake Yogurt
Incredibly Moist and Flavorful
This plum cake yogurt delivers an unmatched moistness that stays fresh for days. The yogurt creates a tender crumb while the plums release their natural juices during baking, creating pockets of sweet-tart flavor throughout each slice. Every bite offers a perfect balance of creamy texture and fruity brightness.
Budget-Friendly Family Dessert
Making this cake at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay at a bakery. With simple ingredients like flour, yogurt, eggs, and fresh plums, you can create a gourmet dessert for under $8. Compare that to a $25 bakery cake, and you’re saving serious money while controlling every ingredient.
Versatile and Customizable
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. You can substitute plums with peaches, apricots, or berries depending on what’s in season. Add a cinnamon streusel topping for extra richness, or keep it simple with a light dusting of powdered sugar. Unlike our chocolate fudge cake, this recipe welcomes experimentation and seasonal variations.
Ready to create this amazing dessert that’ll have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into the recipe!
How to Make Plum Cake Yogurt
Quick Overview
This plum cake yogurt combines the best of both worlds: the moistness of yogurt-based cakes and the natural sweetness of fresh plums. The recipe features a simple one-bowl mixing method that even beginners can master. The yogurt creates an incredibly tender crumb while the plums caramelize slightly during baking, creating beautiful flavor depth.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Serves: 8-10 people
Key Ingredients for Plum Cake Yogurt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4-5 medium ripe plums, pitted and sliced
- 2 tablespoons sugar (for sprinkling)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
Pro tip: Choose plums that are ripe but still firm to prevent them from breaking down completely during baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan or round cake pan with butter and dust with flour, tapping out excess. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the yogurt, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be creamy without any lumps.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents.
Step 4: Create the Batter
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula. Mix just until combined – overmixing leads to tough cake.
Step 5: Prepare the Plums
Wash, pit, and slice your plums into thin wedges. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 6: Assemble the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Arrange plum slices in overlapping circles on top of the batter. Sprinkle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing. Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing for the cleanest cuts.
What to Serve Plum Cake Yogurt With
This versatile cake pairs beautifully with various accompaniments:
Hot Beverages: Serve with freshly brewed coffee, Earl Grey tea, or chai latte for an afternoon treat.
Cold Drinks: Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water with mint for summer gatherings.
Creamy Additions: A dollop of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or Greek yogurt enhances the cake’s moisture and adds richness.
Fresh Elements: Serve alongside fresh berries, a fruit salad, or mint leaves for a refreshing contrast.
Top Tips for Perfecting Plum Cake Yogurt
Choose the Right Yogurt
Use plain Greek yogurt for the best results. Avoid flavored or sweetened varieties as they can affect the cake’s texture and taste balance.
Don’t Overmix the Batter
Mix ingredients just until combined. Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in a tough, dense cake instead of the tender crumb we want.
Test Plum Ripeness
Ripe plums should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be mushy. Underripe plums won’t release enough juice, while overripe ones can make the cake soggy.
Room Temperature Ingredients
Ensure eggs and yogurt are at room temperature for better mixing and a more uniform batter.
Proper Pan Preparation
Thoroughly grease and flour your pan, or use parchment paper for foolproof release.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storage Guidelines
Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 1 week. The cake stays moist due to the yogurt content.
Freezing Instructions
Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 2 hours before serving.
Reheating Methods
For best results, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or reheat the whole cake in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen plums instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first. Pat dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from making the cake soggy.
What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?
Regular plain yogurt works, but Greek yogurt provides better texture. You can also substitute with sour cream for similar results.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Substitute the yogurt with coconut yogurt and use a neutral oil instead of butter. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick in the center – it should come out with a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.
Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
Absolutely! Try peaches, apricots, pears, or mixed berries. Adjust sugar based on the fruit’s natural sweetness.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Slice (1/10 of cake) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 245 |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 22g |
| Calcium | 95mg |
| Vitamin C | 6mg |
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Bonus Tips for Success
Seasonal Variations
- Fall: Add cinnamon and nutmeg with apple slices
- Winter: Try cranberries with orange zest
- Spring: Use strawberries with vanilla bean
- Summer: Stick with stone fruits like peaches or nectarines
Make-Ahead Options
Prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate. Add plums and bake fresh in the morning for warm cake with your coffee.
Gift-Giving Ideas
This cake travels well and makes excellent gifts. Bake in mini loaf pans for individual presents, or create a larger version for potluck gatherings.
This plum cake yogurt recipe proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. The combination of tangy yogurt and sweet plums creates a dessert that’s both sophisticated and comforting. Whether you’re baking for family dinner or a special occasion, this cake delivers consistent, delicious results every time. Happy baking!
