How to Make a Delicious Prune Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Prune cake. The very name might evoke images of something your grandma baked – and you wouldn’t be wrong! This classic dessert has been a teatime favorite for generations, and for good reason. The rich, moist cake infused with the sweet and slightly tangy flavor of prunes is truly a treat for the taste buds.

While prune cake may seem like a baking project best left to experienced bakers, I assure you, it’s much simpler than you think! With this easy-to-follow recipe, even baking newbies can create a prune cake that will impress everyone at the table. So, tie on your aprons, and let’s get baking!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For this recipe, we’ll be making a classic, moist prune cake. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped prunes

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Tools of the Trade:

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Toothpick
• Wire rack

Baking Up a Storm: The Steps

1. Prep the Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. For extra insurance against sticking, line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Cream Together Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
3. Beat in the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, and beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in Vanilla and Prunes: Stir in the vanilla extract and chopped prunes until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Divide and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
8. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool Down: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

The Finishing Touch: Making the Glaze

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the glaze:

1. Combine Glaze Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and free of lumps.
2. Glaze the Cakes: Once the cakes have cooled completely, pour the glaze over the tops, allowing it to drip down the sides.

Tips for Prune Cake Perfection:

• Plump Up Your Prunes: For extra juicy prunes, soak them in hot water for about 10 minutes before chopping.
• Don’t Overmix!: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough cake. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
• Test for Doneness: To make sure the cake is fully cooked, insert a wooden toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s done! If there’s batter clinging to it, bake for a few more minutes.
• Storage: Store any leftover prune cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

FAQs About Prune Cake:

Q: Can I use dried plums instead of prunes?

A: Absolutely! Prunes are simply dried plums, so you can use them interchangeably in this recipe.

Q: Can I freeze prune cake?

A: Yes, you can freeze the cake either before or after glazing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Q: What can I substitute for buttermilk?

A: No buttermilk? No problem! Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a measuring cup and fill with enough milk to reach the 1 cup mark. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Prune Cake

Mixing Ingredients for Prune Cake

There you have it! Now you’re ready to wow your friends and family with a homemade prune cake. It’s a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!