As the summer sun begins to wane and autumn draws near, there's no better time to enjoy the vibrant flavours of this Vegan Plum Almond Cake. This delightful vegan dessert is not only incredibly easy to make but also features the perfect balance of almonds and plums, making it a perfect summer vegan dessert for summer picnics and BBQs.
My Inspiration for this Vegan Plum Almond Cake Recipe
This Vegan Plum Almond Cake recipe is at its base inspired by my childhood memories of my Grandmother`s traditional Czech cakes that are unfortunately originally not vegan.
I found this vegan recipe at Replendet Kitchen`s blog. They lovingly adapted the original (french) recipe that was so close to what I was looking for, to be egg-free and dairy-free, ensuring the flavor and texture of the cake will stay yummy and as it should be! I made a few changes to the recipe to suit me better and I love it! It brings back all the childhood memories but in a healthier/lighter version and easier for digestion.
Health Benefits of the Main ingredients
Plums as a powerful antioxidant
Plums are a powerhouse of nutrients. Rich in antioxidants, plums help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. They are also an excellent source of vitamins C and K, which support immune function and bone health, respectively. Including plums in your diet can aid digestion and contribute to overall well-being.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), plums are highly regarded for their health benefits, particularly due to their cooling properties. They are believed to travel through the liver and kidney meridians, helping to dispel pathogenic heat and enrich saliva, which can alleviate symptoms like frequent thirst and liver inflammation. Plums also promote urination and relieve edema, supporting the body's natural detoxification processes.
Why is Spelt flour healthier than white wheat flour?
In this recipe, spelt flour is used as a healthier alternative to white wheat flour. Spelt is an ancient grain that is more nutrient-dense, offering higher levels of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is also easier to digest for some people, making it a great choice for those with wheat sensitivities. Rich in fiber, spelt helps improve digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements and supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. It also aids in regulating blood sugar levels, making it an excellent choice for those managing diabetes. Making it a smart choice for overall well-being.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), spelt flour is valued for its ability to tonify yin and is considered warm in temperature, with a sweet flavor. It is believed to enter the Spleen channel, making it beneficial for digestive health and for resolving dryness in the body. Spelt is often used to treat conditions such as diarrhea, constipation, and poor digestion, as it is thought to nourish frail and deficient individuals.
Almonds as a holistic dietary choice enhancing overall well-being
Rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin E, almonds help protect cells from oxidative damage, which can contribute to ageing and various diseases such as cancer and heart disease. They are also high in healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and protein, which support heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing blood pressure. Additionally, almonds are an excellent source of magnesium, which plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels, making them beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, almonds are believed to nourish the lungs and relieve coughs, while also promoting digestive health. They are considered warming and are used to balance the body's energy, making them a versatile and holistic choice for enhancing overall well-being.
Adapt Your Cake with Seasonal Fruits and Flour Alternatives
This versatile cake recipe can be easily adapted to suit different tastes, dietary needs and seasons by swapping out plums for other delicious fruits like peaches, cherries, or apricots. Each of these fruits brings its own unique flavor. I personally cannot choose which one I like the most!
For those with nut allergies, you can replace almond flour with spelt flour 1:1 to create a nut-free version of the cake.
Alternatively, incorporating coconut flour can keep the dough light and airy, while also imparting a hint of tropical sweetness. These variations allow you to enjoy the cake in different ways, catering to diverse preferences and dietary restrictions.
Flax egg
A flaxseed egg, or flax egg, is a popular substitute for eggs in vegan baking, made by combination of grounded flaxseeds and water to form a gel-like consistency that mimics the binding properties of eggs. This simple mixture not only serves as an excellent binder in vegan recipes but also adds a boost of minerals, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
Ingredients for Summer Vegan Plum Almond Cake
5 tblsp - olive oil, motherless aromatic oil of your choice
2 tblsp - ground flax seeds + 5 tblsp water
0,5 kg - plums
½ cup - brown sugar (I like to use coconut sugar) If you like your deserts more sweet ass ⅔ cup of sugar
⅓ cup - plant based milk
1 cup - spelt flour
1 cup - almond flour
1 tsp - baking powder
1 lemon zest
Optional:
Vanilla or almond extract, or orange flower extract
Sliced almonds
Instructions: Vegan baking has never been easier
Prepare Flax seed egg - combine 2 tblsp - ground flax seeds + 5 tblsp water and lets it sit
Preheat oven to 180C
Wash and slice plums (or other fruits of your choice)
Mix all dry ingredients in a big bowl
Mix all wet ingredients
Mix all together - mix dry, wet mixtures and flax seed egg together
Pour the batter into a form
If using sprinkle sliced almonds on the batter
Place plums on the batter
If using sprinkle almonds on top + I like to sprinkle the whole cake with 1 spoon of sugar
Place the cake in a preheated oven and bake for 50 to 65 minutes, adjusting the time based on your specific oven's performance. Keep an eye on the cake; it’s ready when it turns a beautiful golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is fully baked; if there’s any batter clinging to the skewer, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again.
Let it cool down and serve
How to store this cake to keep it fresh
To store this cake, it’s best to keep it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Place the cake in an airtight container, where it will last for about 2 to 3 days.
I dont like to eat cold food from the fridge and it works double for cakes. So before eating I would place it in an oven for a few minutes to get warm and fresh.
If you prefer to enjoy it at room temperature, you can also store it in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 3 days, depending on the room temperature, but be mindful that the fruit may cause it to become soggy and even mouldy over time.
If you want to extend its life, freezing is an option; however, it's recommended to freeze the cake without the fruit topping to prevent it from becoming mushy after unfreezing.
Conclusion
This Vegan Plum Cake is a cake you'll want to make again and again. Enjoy this seasonal treat with family and friends, and relish in the simple pleasures of life.
Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Happy baking!
Nutritional Table (Per Serving)
1 cake serves about 8 to 10 servings
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