Taste the magic of christmas in kerala: traditional plum cake recipe infused with rum

Indulge in the festive flavors of Christmas with our delectable Kerala plum cake recipe with rum. This traditional cake, a beloved staple in Kerala, is a symphony of aromatic spices, juicy plums, and the warm embrace of rum. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will lead you to a perfect plum cake that will delight your taste buds and warm your heart.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, cherries)
• 1/2 cup rum

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
• Alternately add the dry ingredients and the milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
• Stir in the dried fruits and rum.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

• In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Glaze the Cake

• Once the cake is completely cool, pour the glaze over the top. Let the glaze set for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, soak the dried fruits in rum for several hours or overnight before adding them to the batter.
• If you don’t have rum, you can substitute it with orange juice or apple cider.
• To prevent the cake from burning, cover it with aluminum foil after 30 minutes of baking.
• Let the cake cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from seeping into the cake.

Variations

• Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to the batter for extra crunch.
• Use different types of dried fruits, such as apricots, dates, or figs, to create a unique flavor profile.
• For a boozy twist, drizzle additional rum over the glazed cake before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the plum cake with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
• Top the cake with whipped cream or ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Wrap the cake in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.

A Taste of Tradition

Kerala plum cake with rum is more than just a dessert; it’s a symbol of Christmas in Kerala. Its rich flavors and warm aroma evoke memories of family gatherings, festive celebrations, and the joy of the holiday season. Whether you’re preparing it for your loved ones or indulging in it as a treat, this traditional delicacy is sure to bring a touch of Christmas cheer to your table.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute self-rising flour for all-purpose flour, but omit the baking powder and baking soda from the recipe.
Q: How can I make sure the cake doesn‘t burn?
A: Cover the cake with aluminum foil after 30 minutes of baking to prevent the top from burning.
Q: Can I bake the cake in a different size pan?
A: Yes, you can adjust the baking time and temperature based on the size of the pan. For a 9×9 inch pan, bake for 35-40 minutes. For a 13×9 inch pan, bake for 50-55 minutes.
Q: How long can I store the cake?
A: The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days.