Mary Berry Plum and Almond Cake

Mary Berry Plum and Almond Cake

I. Introduction

Mary Berry is a shining star in British cooking, inspiring many home cooks with her easy and comforting recipes. She skillfully mixes old traditions with new ideas, making her a beloved figure in the cooking world. One of her standout recipes is the Plum and Almond Cake, known for its rich taste and cozy feel, making it a favorite for family get-togethers and special events. This recipe includes background information and nutritional facts, as well as a vegan version, so that everyone can enjoy this delicious treat.

II. Mary Berry’s Unique Approach & Historical Context

Mary Berry highlights the importance of using good ingredients in her recipes, as she believes that the best results come from the best components. The Plum and Almond Cake has a long history, with fruits being used to make baked goods sweet and moist. Over the years, this cake has changed, with different nuts and flavors being added based on local tastes and what was available.

According to culinary historians, recipes similar to the Plum and Almond Cake can be traced back to the medieval period, where fruit-based cakes were common in European households. Mary Berry respects these traditions but adds her signature touch by incorporating almond flour, which not only enhances the cake’s flavor but also provides a delightful texture.

III. Notices on Ingredients & Equipment

Ingredients:

• 200g unsalted butter, softened
• 200g caster sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 200g self-raising flour
• 100g ground almonds
• 1 tsp almond extract
• 300g plums, pitted and sliced
• A pinch of salt
• Icing sugar for dusting (optional)

Kitchen Equipment:

• 20cm round cake tin
• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Spatula
• Baking parchment
• Cooling rack

IV. Recipe Instruction

Preheat the Oven: First of all, Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Prepare the Cake Tin: Grease the cake tin and line the bottom with baking parchment.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until pale and fluffy.