This Plum Upside-Down Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Featuring caramelized plums nestled in a buttery brown sugar topping, the cake boasts a moist and tender crumb enhanced by a hint of vanilla and cinnamon. Perfect for late summer or early fall, this dessert pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Its stunning presentation makes it an ideal centerpiece for a dinner party, yet it’s simple enough to enjoy as a casual treat with your morning coffee.
Ingredients
For the topping:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 4–5 ripe plums, pitted and sliced into wedges
For the cake:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Prepare the topping:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt the butter in a 9-inch round cake pan over low heat or in a saucepan, then pour it into the pan.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the melted butter.
- Arrange the plum slices in a circular pattern over the sugar, overlapping slightly if needed. Set aside.
- Make the cake batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Assemble and bake:
- Gently spread the cake batter over the arranged plums, ensuring they are evenly covered.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
- Run a knife around the edges to loosen, then carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with whipped cream or ice cream.
Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet caramelized plums and tender cake in every bite!
