Frequently Asked Questions
What is Plum Custard Coffee Cake?
It is a luscious dessert featuring a buttery, crumbly crust topped with fresh plums and a creamy custard, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Where does this recipe come from?
This recipe was adapted from the Squalicum Lake Cottage Bed and Breakfast located in Bellingham, WA.
Who shared this recipe with the author?
The recipe was a thoughtful gift from a dear friend named Lulu B.
What size pan should I use for this cake?
A 9-inch square pan or a 9-inch pie pan is recommended.
What is the required oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
What goes into the dry flour mixture?
The dry mixture consists of 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
How should the butter be added to the flour?
Cut the butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
How much heavy cream is needed for the dough?
The dough requires 2 tablespoons of heavy cream.
How many eggs are used in the dough?
One egg is used in the dough mixture.
How do I form the crust?
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
How should the plums be prepared?
The plums should be pitted and sliced before being arranged on the crust.
How many plums are needed?
You will need approximately 2 cups of plums.
How long is the initial baking time?
Bake the crust and plums for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust is lightly golden.
What are the ingredients for the custard topping?
The custard is made from 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup sugar, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
How do I make the custard topping?
Whisk the cream, sugar, egg, and vanilla together until the mixture is smooth.
When do I add the custard to the cake?
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the baked plums once the initial baking period is finished.
How long does the cake bake after adding the custard?
Bake for an additional 20 to 30 minutes until the custard is set.
How can I tell if the custard is done?
The custard is done when it is set and the top is lightly golden.
Should the cake be cooled before serving?
Yes, allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing.
What is the best way to serve this coffee cake?
It can be served warm or at room temperature.
How many eggs are used in total for the whole recipe?
The recipe uses 2 large eggs in total: one for the dough and one for the custard.
Is there vanilla in this recipe?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract is added to the custard topping.
What type of flour is used?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of all-purpose flour.
How much butter is used?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of softened butter.
Can I use this for a seasonal dessert?
Yes, it is tagged as a seasonal fruit dessert and is excellent when plums are in season.
What is the texture of the base layer?
The base is described as a buttery and crumbly layer.
How much sugar is in the custard layer?
The custard layer contains 1/2 cup of granulated sugar.
Is the pan greased?
Yes, the instructions specify to grease the pan before starting.
What is the flavor profile?
Each bite offers a harmonious blend of tart plums and sweet custard.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include breakfast, brunch, coffee cake, plum recipe, dessert, custard, easy baking, and seasonal fruits.