Ingredients:
For the Cake:
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup milk (whole milk or buttermilk works best)
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1/2 cup plum puree (about 3-4 ripe plums, peeled and blended)
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1/2 cup chopped plums (for the batter)
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1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
For the Lemon Glaze:
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1 cup powdered sugar
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2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
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1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra zing)
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1-2 teaspoons milk (to adjust consistency)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper.
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Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
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Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
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Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
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Add the plum puree and milk: Stir in the plum puree and milk, mixing until well combined.
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Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until the batter is smooth. Be careful not to overmix.
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Fold in the chopped plums and chocolate chips (if using): Gently fold in the chopped plums and chocolate chips to the batter.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool the cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Lemon Glaze:
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Make the glaze: In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using). Stir until smooth. Add milk, one teaspoon at a time, until the glaze reaches your desired consistency. It should be pourable but not too runny.
3. Glaze the Cake:
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Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the lemon glaze over the top. You can either cover the entire cake or just drizzle in a decorative pattern.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Allow the glaze to set for about 10-15 minutes before slicing the cake. Serve and enjoy this delightful combination of chocolate, plums, and tangy lemon!
This cake is a great dessert for any season, but especially with fresh plums in the summer. 🍫🍑🍋