Plum Coffee Cake Recipe [FULL GUIDE]

Alright, let’s talk coffee cake-but not just any ol’ cinnamon-streusel coffee cake. Nope. We’re making it fancy, juicy, and just a little rustic with a fruity twist: Plum Coffee Cake! Just the name conjures images of lazy weekend mornings, a sun-dappled kitchen, and the smell of baked fruit and vanilla wafting through the air. Are you with me?

This is the cake that straddles the line between breakfast and dessert like a true pro. It’s tender, buttery, full of jammy plums, and kissed with spices that bring warmth and balance to the tangy sweetness of the fruit. Add a crumb topping or a drizzle of glaze and you’ve got a showstopper that feels indulgent but also totally justifiable as a breakfast treat. (It has fruit, after all!)

So, whether you’re hosting brunch, need a cozy bake for a crisp autumn afternoon, or just found yourself with a bowl of overripe plums-this recipe is for you.

Plum Coffee Cake Recipe (The Magic In A Pan)

What Is Plum Coffee Cake, Really?

Think of it as:

• A moist, buttery cake base (think soft, tender crumb-like a sponge but richer)
• Topped or swirled with juicy slices of ripe plums
• Often adorned with a crunchy streusel topping or a simple vanilla glaze
• Not actually flavored with coffee (though it begs to be eaten with coffee)

It’s humble, homey, and somehow elegant all at once.

Ingredients Needed

Let’s break it down-you might already have most of these in your kitchen!

For The Cake

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened – for that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar – adds sweetness and helps with that beautiful golden crust.
• 2 large eggs – they bind the batter and add richness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – because cake without vanilla is just… sad.
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt – for moisture and a slight tang.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder – the magic rise-maker.
• 1/4 tsp baking soda – gives it a little extra lift.
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon – optional but delightful.

For The Fruit

• 2-3 ripe plums, thinly sliced – skin on or off, your call. Skin adds color and a little texture.
• 1 tbsp brown sugar – helps the plums caramelize a bit.

Optional Streusel Topping

• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp butter, cold and cubed
• Pinch of cinnamon

Optional Vanilla Glaze

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tbsp milk
• Splash of vanilla

How To Make Plum Coffee Cake

Let’s roll up those sleeves and get baking! This is a straightforward recipe, but you’ll feel like a pro pulling this beauty from the oven.

Step-by-Step

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan (or line with parchment if you want easy removal).
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy-about 3-4 minutes. This adds air and gives the cake a tender crumb.
3. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and sour cream: Add half of the dry mix to the wet batter, mix, then add the sour cream, mix again, and finish with the remaining dry ingredients. Don’t overmix-just combine!
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
7. Arrange plum slices over the top in a single layer or overlapping spiral pattern. It doesn’t need to be perfect-rustic is beautiful.
8. (Optional) Make streusel topping by combining flour, brown sugar, and cold butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter until it’s crumbly. Sprinkle over the top.
9. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean and the top is golden brown. The plums may bubble a bit-this is GOOD.
10. Cool for 15-20 minutes before glazing.
11. (Optional) Drizzle glaze over the cooled cake for that bakery-style finish.

Ingredient Science Spotlight

Let’s geek out for a second. These ingredients aren’t just here for show-each one plays a vital role.

• Butter vs. Oil: Butter adds richness and flavor and contributes to the cake’s tender crumb. Oil would give more moisture but less flavor-use butter here.
• Sour Cream (or Greek Yogurt): The acid in these ingredients helps tenderize the gluten, making the cake softer. It also adds depth and moisture.
• Plums: High in natural pectin and sugar, plums soften into a jammy texture when baked, adding both moisture and complexity.
• Brown Sugar (for topping): The molasses in brown sugar deepens the flavor and adds that caramel-like crunch in the streusel.

Expert Tips

Want to elevate your plum coffee cake to bakery levels? Here are a few pro moves:

• Use ripe but firm plums: Overripe ones get mushy, underripe ones stay tart and firm. Look for slightly soft plums with deep color.
• Rest your batter: Let the mixed batter sit for 10-15 minutes before baking. It hydrates the flour for an even softer crumb.
• Add almond extract: Just a drop! It pairs beautifully with plums-like they were meant to be together.
• Don’t skip the streusel or glaze unless you’re going for super minimalist. That extra touch adds visual appeal and texture.

Recipe Variations

Oh, you thought we were done? Please. The versatility here is part of the charm. Try these twists:

• Other Fruits

  • Peaches or nectarines – similar in texture and sweetness.
  • Cherries – for a tart, juicy pop.
  • Apples – for a fall-friendly version (add more cinnamon!).

• Flavor Boosts

  • Add lemon zest to the batter for brightness.
  • Swap cinnamon for cardamom or nutmeg.

• Make It Whole Grain

  • Sub ½ cup of the flour for whole wheat flour-adds a nutty depth.

• Add-ins

  • Chopped walnuts or almonds in the streusel.
  • A few spoonfuls of plum jam swirled into the batter before baking.

Final Words

There’s something so comforting and nostalgic about a slice of warm, fruit-studded coffee cake. It doesn’t scream for attention-it whispers it, gently and sweetly. It’s not fussy. It doesn’t demand perfection. And that’s the beauty of it.

A Plum Coffee Cake invites you to pause. To savor. To have seconds. Maybe even thirds (who’s counting?). It reminds us that baking is more than just following steps-it’s about creating small, memorable moments of joy.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients In A Plum Coffee Cake?

The key ingredients for a plum coffee cake include ripe plums, flour, sugar, eggs, butter, milk, baking powder, vanilla extract, and a crumbly streusel topping made with flour, sugar, and butter.

Can I Substitute Other Fruits For Plums In A Coffee Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute other fruits like peaches, cherries, or apples in place of plums. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly depending on the fruit you choose.

Do I Need To Peel The Plums For The Coffee Cake?

It is not necessary to peel the plums for a coffee cake. The skin adds texture and flavor. Simply wash them thoroughly and slice them thinly before using.

Can I Use Frozen Plums In A Plum Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can use frozen plums. Be sure to thaw and drain them well before incorporating them into the batter to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the cake.

How Can I Make The Crumb Topping For The Plum Coffee Cake?

To make the crumb topping, combine flour, sugar, and cold butter in a bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Can I Make The Batter In Advance And Store It?

You can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to bake the cake the same day it’s prepared.

What Type Of Pan Is Best For Baking Plum Coffee Cake?

A 9-inch round or square cake pan works well for a plum coffee cake. You can also use a springform pan if you prefer an easy-release option. Make sure to grease the pan to prevent sticking.

How Long Should I Bake The Plum Coffee Cake?

Bake the plum coffee cake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40-50 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Can I Use A Dairy-free Substitute In A Plum Coffee Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can use dairy-free substitutes such as almond milk or oat milk for the milk, and plant-based butter or coconut oil for the butter to make the coffee cake dairy-free.

How Should I Store Leftover Plum Coffee Cake?

Store leftover plum coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months.