Description

Jamie Oliver’s Plum Upside-Down Cake features fresh plums arranged at the bottom of a cake tin, topped with a layer of cake batter that bakes to golden perfection. When flipped, the juicy plums become a sweet, sticky topping that infuses the cake with natural fruit flavor.

Ingredients

For the Topping:

Fresh plums (4-5, halved and pitted): Provides a juicy, sweet-tart topping.
Butter (50g): Helps create the caramelized layer with the sugar.
Brown sugar (75g): Adds a caramel-like sweetness to the plum topping.

For the Cake:

Butter (100g, softened): Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
Caster sugar (100g): Sweetens the cake and creates a soft crumb.
Eggs (2 large): Binds and enriches the batter.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the cake’s flavor.
Self-raising flour (150g): Provides structure and a light texture.
Baking powder (1/2 tsp): Ensures the cake rises well.
Milk (2-3 tbsp): Adds moisture to the batter.

Optional Garnish:

Icing sugar (for dusting): Adds a decorative touch.
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream: Perfect for serving alongside.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Topping

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (fan).
In the cake tin, melt the butter over low heat, then sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the melted butter.
Arrange the halved plums cut-side down over the butter and sugar layer.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift the self-raising flour and baking powder into the bowl, folding gently until combined.
Add 2-3 tablespoons of milk to achieve a smooth, spoonable batter consistency.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Carefully spread the batter over the plum layer, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Flip

Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10-15 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Remove the parchment paper to reveal the caramelized plum topping.

Step 6: Serve

Dust with icing sugar and serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.