Name: Plum Ricotta Cake – A Creamy Summer Treat to Delight!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 3 large Eggs (room temperature); 1 cup Sugar (adjust to taste); 1 cup Ricotta Cheese (or cottage cheese); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure for best flavor); 1/4 cup Olive Oil (or melted butter); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free option); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (ensure fresh); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (a small dash); 1 cup Plums (plus more for decoration)

There’s something magical about summer fruits that brings a burst of joy into our kitchens, don’t you think? When juicy plums are in season, I can’t resist the urge to bake something special, which is why I’m excited to share my delightful Plum Ricotta Cake recipe. This Italian-inspired treat offers a heavenly blend of creamy ricotta and tart plums, creating a soft texture that melts in your mouth. Not only is it an elegant addition to any gathering, but it’s also a lighter alternative for those looking to indulge without the heaviness of traditional cakes. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – feel free to swap in other summer fruits for a twist! Are you ready to embark on a baking adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why is this Plum Ricotta Cake special?

Delightful, Unique Flavor: The juicy plums combined with creamy ricotta create a perfect harmony of sweet and tart, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

Easy to Make: This cake simplifies baking for all skill levels, ensuring everyone can create a show-stopping dessert without fuss.

Versatile Ingredients: With suggested fruit substitutions like peaches or berries, this recipe allows for seasonal creativity, catering to your taste buds and pantry.

Crowd-Pleaser: Its elegant presentation and delightful flavors make it an ideal dessert for gatherings, ensuring you impress family and friends.

Light and Refreshing: Unlike heavier cakes, this Plum Ricotta Cake is a lighter option perfect for summer celebrations, keeping your dessert experience joyful and satisfying.

Ready for more delectable ideas? Pair this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or check out our Cheesecake Fruit Salad for a refreshing side!

Plum Ricotta Cake Ingredients

• To create this delightful Plum Ricotta Cake, gather these essential ingredients for a delicious baking experience!

For the Batter

Eggs – Provides structure and moisture; use large, room temperature eggs for best results.
Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in browning; adjust to taste depending on the tartness of the plums.
Ricotta Cheese – Offers creaminess and moisture, giving the cake a delectable cheesecake-like quality. Alternative: cottage cheese can be used, although the texture will differ.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
Olive Oil or Melted Butter – Adds richness; light tasting olive oil keeps it neutral while butter lends a deeper flavor.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cake’s base; for gluten-free, try almond or coconut flour while adjusting measurements as needed.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise; always ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates flavor; just a small dash enhances all flavors.

For the Fruit

Plums (1 cup plus more for decoration) – The star of the cake, providing juicy flavor; feel free to substitute with peaches, apricots, nectarines, or berries depending on availability and preference.

Now that you’re set with the ingredients, let’s get those baking gears turning!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Plum Ricotta Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your Plum Ricotta Cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients to streamline the process.

Step 2: Combine Eggs and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined—this should take about 2 minutes. The eggs should appear pale and slightly frothy, indicating they are ready for the next ingredients.

Step 3: Add Ricotta and Flavorings
Now, add the creamy ricotta cheese, olive oil or melted butter, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Whisk until the mixture is completely homogenous, with no lumps remaining. This will create a rich, velvety base for your cake that enhances the overall flavor and texture.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt into the wet mixture. Carefully combine everything until just blended to avoid overworking the batter. You will notice the batter becoming thicker and smoother; this is exactly what you want for your Plum Ricotta Cake.

Step 5: Add the Plums
Gently fold in the star ingredient—1 cup of chopped plums—into the batter using a spatula. Take care not to overmix, as this could lead to a denser cake. The plums should be evenly distributed, lending their flavorful juices throughout the batter.

Step 6: Prepare the Springform Pan
Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later. This step ensures your Plum Ricotta Cake seems flawless when serving, preventing any sticking that could mar its beautiful presentation.

Step 7: Pour the Batter
Carefully pour the cake batter into the prepared springform pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. For an elegant touch, you may choose to decorate the top with additional thinly sliced plums, which will caramelize nicely as they bake, adding flavor and visual appeal.

Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know the cake is ready when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The enticing aroma filling your kitchen will be a good indicator of deliciousness to come.

Step 9: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the Plum Ricotta Cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. After that, gently release the sides of the springform pan and transfer the cake to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely to let the flavors settle.

Step 10: Slice and Serve
Once fully cooled, slice your Plum Ricotta Cake into generous pieces. This delightful cake can be served on its own, simply dusted with powdered sugar, or with a dollop of whipped cream for an even more indulgent experience. Enjoy the sweet flavors and soft texture with friends and family!

Plum Ricotta Cake Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize this recipe to tantalize your taste buds!

Different Fruits: Swap plums for peaches, apricots, or mixed berries for delightful flavor explorations. Each fruit brings its own unique sweetness!
Chocolate Delight: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, indulgent twist that pairs beautifully with the creamy ricotta.
Flavored Extracts: Infuse the batter with almond or lemon extract for an aromatic upgrade that elevates the cake’s overall taste experience.
Nutty Addition: Stir in some finely chopped nuts, like pistachios or walnuts, for added crunch and a flavorful contrast to the soft cake.
Lighter Version: Substitute some or all of the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness, creating a slightly different flavor profile that is equally satisfying.

For an easy summer dessert, serve your cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an out-of-this-world treat. If you’re looking for more inspiration, try pairing it with our Lemon Eclair Cake for a refreshing contrast!

Spiced Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a hint of warmth that’s especially lovely during the cooler months.
Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk ricotta instead of dairy to create a plant-based version of your Plum Ricotta Cake while maintaining its lovely texture.

Expert Tips for Plum Ricotta Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and ricotta, are at room temperature for easy mixing and optimal texture in your Plum Ricotta Cake.
Don’t Overmix: When folding in the plums, mix gently to prevent a dense texture. Overmixing is a common mistake that can be easily avoided!
Check Your Oven: Invest in an oven thermometer to confirm that your baking temperature is accurate, which is key to even baking.
Cool Completely: Allow your cake to cool completely before slicing. This will help it set properly and make slicing much easier.
Adjust for Sweetness: Depending on the tartness of the plums, feel free to adjust the sugar to your taste; it makes a difference in the final sweetness of your cake!

How to Store and Freeze Plum Ricotta Cake

Fridge: Store the Plum Ricotta Cake covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. It can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Thawing: To defrost, simply transfer the desired slices to the fridge overnight. Enjoy them at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave.

Reheating: If you prefer your cake warm, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, keeping the cake covered to retain moisture.

What to Serve with Plum Ricotta Cake

Elevate your dessert experience by pairing this delightful cake with complementary sides that enhance its flavors and textures.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and a creamy contrast that beautifully balances the cake’s richness.
Fresh Berries: Serve a medley of berries for a pop of color and a tart flavor that enhances the sweetness of the plums.
Coconut Ice Cream: The tropical notes of coconut ice cream provide a creamy, cool counterpart, perfect for warm summer days.
Mint Tea: A fragrant mint tea acts as a refreshing palate cleanser and beautifully complements the fruity notes of the cake.

Want to create a more festive atmosphere? Consider a light fruit salad on the side to bring in freshness alongside the warm, comforting elegance of the Plum Ricotta Cake.

Make Ahead Options

These Plum Ricotta Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts who want to save time and still enjoy a homemade treat! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance, simply mixing all the wet and dry ingredients, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent browning. Additionally, you can wash and chop the plums ahead of time, keeping them in a separate container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just combine the fruit with the batter, pour it into the prepared pan, and follow the final baking instructions. This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!

Plum Ricotta Cake Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting plums?
When selecting plums, look for ones that are slightly soft to the touch with a vibrant color. Avoid plums with dark spots or wrinkles, as these may indicate overripeness. Ideally, you want firm, shiny plums that yield gently when pressed. They should have a pleasant sweet fragrance, signalling their ripeness and flavor!

How should I store my Plum Ricotta Cake?
You can store your Plum Ricotta Cake in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture. You can enjoy it chilled, or let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste experience!

Can I freeze the Plum Ricotta Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your Plum Ricotta Cake, first let it cool completely after baking. Then, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy slices for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bag with the date for reference!

How do I thaw the frozen cake?
Thawing your frozen Plum Ricotta Cake is super easy! Just move a slice to the refrigerator the night before you plan to enjoy it. If you’re in a hurry, you can also set the slices on the countertop for a couple of hours. For a warm treat, you can reheat the thawed cake in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, keeping it covered to prevent it from drying out.

Is this cake suitable for anyone with dairy allergies?
Since this recipe includes ricotta cheese, it’s not suitable for those with dairy allergies. However, a potential alternative is to use dairy-free ricotta or a nut-based cream cheese option. While it may slightly alter the texture and flavor, you can still achieve a delicious result that accommodates dietary needs. Always ensure the substitutes are allergy-friendly based on individual preferences!

What if my cake turns out too dense?
If your Plum Ricotta Cake ends up dense, it could be due to overmixing after adding the plums or not incorporating enough air into the batter. For next time, remember to gently fold in the fruits to prevent the batter from becoming too heavy. Always check the freshness of your baking powder as well, since an expired leavening agent may affect the cake’s rise!