Traditional German Plum Cake Zwetschgenkuchen
Experience a taste of Germany with this Traditional German Plum Cake, known as Zwetschgenkuchen. This classic dessert features a buttery, yeast-based dough that’s perfectly soft and tender, topped with rows of juicy, ripe plums that melt into a vibrant, fruity layer during baking. A hint of cinnamon and a sprinkle of brown sugar enhance the plums’ natural sweetness, while an optional breadcrumb base keeps the crust delightfully crisp. This seasonal favorite is perfect for late summer or early fall, when plums are at their peak. Whether served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or enjoyed simply on its own, Zwetschgenkuchen captures the essence of a traditional German coffee cake, making it a delightful addition to any afternoon gathering or cozy dessert spread.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 300 g All-purpose flour
- 50 g Granulated sugar
- 1 tsp Salt
- 7 g Active dry yeast
- 150 ml Lukewarm milk
- 50 g Unsalted butter, melted
- 1 piece Egg, large
- 800 g Plums, ripe but firm
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- 2 tbsp Brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and active dry yeast.
Gradually stir in the lukewarm milk, melted butter, and egg. Knead the mixture until it forms a smooth dough. This takes about 8-10 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with a stand mixer.
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Meanwhile, wash and slice the plums in half. Remove the pits and quarter each half, keeping the slices intact.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (355°F) and prepare a baking sheet or rectangular pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to fit your baking pan. Transfer the rolled dough into the pan, pressing it into the corners.
If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the dough. This helps to absorb the moisture from the plums and prevents the crust from becoming soggy.
Arrange the plum slices in rows on top of the dough, skin side down, overlapping slightly to ensure even coverage.
Dust the plums with brown sugar and cinnamon for added sweetness and flavor.
Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges of the dough are golden and the plums are soft and juicy.
Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature. Optionally, top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
301 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 7.1 g | 9% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.0 g | 20% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 39 mg | 13% | |
| Sodium | 275 mg | 12% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 53.4 g | 19% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.9 g | 10% | |
| Total Sugars | 20.6 g | ||
| Protein | 6.7 g | 13% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.4 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 45 mg | 3% | |
| Iron | 2.0 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 252 mg | 5% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
