Today, we’re taking a delightful journey to Poland, my homeland, where the aroma of freshly baked yeast cake fills the air. Join me in recreating the magic of a traditional Polish yeast cake with plums and a generous sprinkle of irresistible crumble topping. This recipe promises a symphony of textures and flavors that will transport you to a cosy kitchen in the heart of Poland.

Unleashing the Magic of Yeast in Sweet Treats

Before we get to the recipe, let’s talk about the secret ingredient that transforms this Polish Plum Yeast Cake into a heavenly delight – yeast. While we often associate yeast with bread, its enchanting properties extend far beyond savory loaves. Incorporating yeast into sweet baked goods adds a unique touch, creating a delicate, airy texture that elevates the entire experience. In the case of our Plum Yeast Cake, the yeast contributes to a soft, pillowy dough that cradles the succulent plums and crumbly topping. It’s the alchemy of yeast that makes each bite a symphony of flavors and textures. So, don’t shy away from exploring the sweet side of yeast in your baking adventures – it’s the secret weapon that turns ordinary treats into extraordinary indulgences.

Is Plum Cake with Crumble Topping difficult to make?

Not at all! This yeast-based cake is mess-free and fail-proof. It will turn out great every time! Unlike most recipes that use yeast (think bread, sweet buns or even pizza), this recipe doesn’t require any kneading! Making the dough is as simple as throwing ingredients into a bowl and mixing them together.

Ingredients for a yeast cake with plums and crumble topping

Ingredients for yeast dough

• 1 cup warm milk
• 200g butter, melted and cooled down
• 1 cup sugar
• 4 eggs
• 25g fresh yeasts
• 4 cups plain flour (not self-rising)

Ingredients for crumble topping

• 1/4 cup butter, softened in room temperature
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 plain flour

Also

• Fresh plums. Depending on the size of the plums you find in the store, 18-25 plums should be enough.

How to make a yeast cake with plums and crumble topping

1. Prepare the Yeast batter

First, melt the butter and let it cool down a little.

In the meantime, crack the eggs into a large bowl and add the sugar. Using an electric whisk, beat the eggs with sugar for a few minutes until light and fluffy.

Next, add milk to the mixture. The milk should be room temperature. Heat it up on the hob or in the microwave if it’s straight from the fridge, but don’t overheat it.

Then, slowly add the melted butter to the mixture of eggs, sugar and milk.

Finally, crumble the fresh yeasts into the batter. Don’t stir. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and leave for a couple of hours in a warm place.

2. Prepare the plums

Whilst the yeasts are slowly doing their job, prepare the plums. Wash them and pat dry, then slice each in half lengthwise. Remove the pit.

3. Prepare the crumble

In a small bowl, combine flour, sugar, and softened butter. Use your fingertips to create a crumbly texture. Set it aside.

4. Prepare the base of the cake

Once the batter with yeasts has risen, add the flour to it and mix everything with a spatula. Be gentle with it! No need to overdo it either, don’t worry if it looks like there are some lumps in the batter.

The mixture will be quite runny and sticky – far from a texture that you could knead. No need to worry! This cake doesn’t require kneading, and the soft consistency is what makes the cake so delicate and fluffy.

5. Assemble the cake

Line a large tray with baking paper. I use a deep baking sheet the size of my oven – roughly 36×36 cm.

Pour the batter onto the tray and evenly distribute it with a spatula. Arrange the plum halves on the batter, skin down. Slightly press them into the cake.

Finally, sprinkle the plums with the crumble, evenly distributing it.

Leave the cake to rise again in a warm place for 45 minutes.

6. Baking time

Whilst the cake is assembled and rising, preheat the oven to 180°C.

Put the cake in the oven, leaving the oven door a few inches ajar for 20 minutes. After that time, close the door and let the cake continue baking for another 30 minutes.

Once the baking time is up, take the cake out of the oven immediately.

Let it cool before slicing, but make sure to have a slice when it’s still slightly warm!

Serve this plum cake with crumble sprinkled with icing sugar. Enjoy!

Bon Appetit!

There you have it – a taste of Poland in the form of a delectable Plum Yeast Cake with a dreamy crumble topping. Each bite is a harmonious blend of soft, pillowy dough, sweet plums, and the satisfying crunch of the crumble. Perfect for an afternoon tea, family gatherings, or any occasion when you crave a slice of homemade bliss. Happy baking!

Also see:

• Food
• Sweet