Plum Cinnamon Upside-Down Cake Recipe
If you’re craving a dessert that manages to feel both cozy and a little bit special, the Plum Cinnamon Upside-Down Cake is exactly what you need. It’s a gorgeous celebration of juicy, caramelized plums nestled under a warmly spiced cake with the perfect hint of cinnamon, making each bite a comforting hug. This cake transforms humble ingredients into a showstopper dessert that’s bursting with seasonal charm and natural sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a family dinner or a casual get-together, the Plum Cinnamon Upside-Down Cake brings that delightful wow factor that’s both nostalgic and fresh.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients come together beautifully to create a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. Each element, from the fresh plums to the cinnamon, works in harmony to build that irresistibly moist and fragrant cake you’ll want to savor again and again.
- 1 1/2 cups flour: The base of your cake, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps caramelize the plums.
- 2 eggs: Bind the batter, adding moisture and richness.
- 1/2 cup butter: Adds buttery depth and keeps the cake melt-in-your-mouth soft.
- 4 plums, sliced: The star of the show, offering juicy tartness and beautiful color.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Infuses warmth and spice without overpowering the fruit.
How to Make Plum Cinnamon Upside-Down Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Plum Base
Start by arranging the sliced plums evenly in your baking pan. Sprinkle sugar over the plums so it can melt and caramelize during baking, creating that signature glossy, sticky layer that makes an upside-down cake extra special. The fruit will become beautifully tender and richly flavored as it bakes.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, gently fold in the flour and cinnamon, being careful not to overmix. The cinnamon brings a subtle spiced warmth that perfectly complements the sweetness and juiciness of the plums.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour your prepared cake batter evenly over the plum-sugar layer in the pan. Pop the pan into a preheated 180°C oven and bake for about 35 minutes. During this time, the batter will rise and set while the fruit caramelizes underneath, creating that classic upside-down effect that’s both stunning and delicious.
Step 4: Flip and Serve
Once baked and slightly cooled, it’s time for the satisfying flip. Carefully invert the pan onto a serving plate so the caramelized plums are on top. Serve the Plum Cinnamon Upside-Down Cake warm to enjoy the full depth of flavor and luscious texture.
How to Serve Plum Cinnamon Upside-Down Cake
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of softly whipped cream can elevate your Plum Cinnamon Upside-Down Cake without stealing the spotlight. For an extra touch, sprinkle some toasted almond slivers for crunch or fresh mint leaves for a pop of freshness.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of crème fraîche, balancing the cinnamon and plum’s warmth with creamy cold textures. For a cozy beverage, a cup of spiced tea or a mild coffee makes a perfect companion.
Creative Ways to Present
For a bit of drama, try serving individual slices with a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can also set small ramekins with the plum base and batter for personal upside-down cakes that are perfect for entertaining. Another fun idea is layering slices of the cake into a trifle with yogurt and fruit for a stunning dessert display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, wrap the Plum Cinnamon Upside-Down Cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for about five days without losing moisture or flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover cake by wrapping it well in foil and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It freezes beautifully for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to enjoy that freshly baked taste again.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked warmth, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or warm the entire cake in a 160°C oven for 10–15 minutes. Serving it slightly warm brings out the best in the Plum Cinnamon Upside-Down Cake’s caramel notes and soft texture.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits besides plums?
Absolutely! While plums offer a unique tangy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon, you can experiment with peaches, nectarines, or even apples to create your own twist on the cake.
What type of cinnamon should I use?
Ground cinnamon works perfectly. For a more complex flavor, you could try Ceylon cinnamon, which is a bit milder and sweeter than the common Cassia variety.
Do I need a special pan for an upside-down cake?
A standard oven-safe cake or skillet pan works well. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the fruit and batter and that you can safely invert it onto a plate without spills.
Can this cake be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, preferably one that includes xanthan gum, to maintain the cake’s tender crumb and texture.
Is this cake suitable for beginners?
Definitely. The Plum Cinnamon Upside-Down Cake has a straightforward method and few ingredients, making it an excellent project for bakers new and experienced alike.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about the Plum Cinnamon Upside-Down Cake that makes it an instant favorite. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate seasonal fruit with a cake that’s simple enough for any day but elegant enough to impress guests. Give it a try—you might just find yourself baking this deliciously fragrant, tender, and fruity cake over and over again.
