Why Make This Recipe
Iny’s Prune Cake is a delightful treat that combines the moistness of prunes with a hint of warm spices. It’s not just delicious, but also retains a certain nostalgic charm, reminiscent of recipes passed down through generations. This cake is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home.
Making this cake allows you to explore the richness of flavors that come together harmoniously. The buttery icing draped over the warm cake enhances the experience, making it comforting and satisfying. Whether you are an experienced baker or just starting, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.
Equipment Needed for Iny’s Prune Cake
Baking this cake requires some essential tools. Here’s what you need to get started:
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A whisk or electric mixer
- A sifter (optional)
- A 9×13-inch baking pan
- A saucepan for making icing
- A spoon or spatula for mixing
What You Need to Make Iny’s Prune Cake
Cake:
- 1 cup prunes (cooked & mashed)
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup oil
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla
Spices & Leavening:
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp each of nutmeg, allspice, & cinnamon
Icing:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 Tbsp corn syrup
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 tsp vanilla
How to Cook Iny’s Prune Cake Step by Step
Start your journey by preheating the oven to 300°F (150°C). While the oven warms up, get your 9×13-inch pan ready by greasing it well. This step ensures that your cake comes out easily after baking.
Next, prepare the prunes. Cook them in a pot of water until they become soft. Drain the water and mash the prunes to create a smooth texture. This will be an essential ingredient for the cake, giving it moisture and a unique flavor.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oil, sugar, and eggs. Use a whisk or mixer to blend these ingredients until they are well incorporated. In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and spices. The spices will add warmth and depth to the cake, making every bite special.
Gently mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Make sure to be gentle to avoid overworking the batter. Once combined, add in the buttermilk and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is just mixed. Now, fold in the mashed prunes, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan, then place it in the oven. Bake the cake for about 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent overbaking. You can test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
While the cake is baking, prepare the icing. In a saucepan, combine all the icing ingredients: sugar, buttermilk, baking soda, corn syrup, butter, and vanilla. Bring the mixture to a slow boil over medium heat. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it takes on a beautiful caramel color.
As soon as the cake is done baking, pour the hot icing over it. The icing will soak into the warm cake, creating a delicious and rich topping. Let the cake cool slightly in the pan before serving it warm to your family and friends.
How to Make Iny’s Prune Cake
To make Iny’s Prune Cake, follow the detailed steps outlined previously for the best results. It is crucial to ensure your prunes are well-cooked and mashed, as this contributes to the cake’s moisture. Mixing wet and dry ingredients should be done with care to incorporate air, but avoid over-mixing, which can result in a dense texture.
Remember that the icing must be made while the cake is baking to serve it hot. This is a key step to achieving that gooey, caramel-like finish that makes this cake unique.
How to Serve Iny’s Prune Cake
Serving Iny’s Prune Cake can be as simple or as fancy as you’d like. The cake itself can be enjoyed warm right out of the oven, allowing the icing to stay silky and slightly gooey. Cut it into squares and serve on dessert plates.
For a more dessert-like experience, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the cake. You can also sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top for added flavor, or serve with a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness.
What to Serve With Iny’s Prune Cake
Iny’s Prune Cake is versatile and can complement several other dishes. It pairs well with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it an excellent choice for afternoon snacks.
You might also serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad to brighten up the plate. The fruits add a refreshing touch that balances the cake’s richness. Another good option is a simple vanilla ice cream, which enhances the overall experience with its creaminess.
How to Store Iny’s Prune Cake
To keep Iny’s Prune Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container. You can keep it at room temperature for a couple of days or refrigerate it if you want to extend its shelf life. When stored in the refrigerator, the cake can last up to a week.
If you prefer to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container. It is best enjoyed within three months when frozen. To serve, let the cake thaw in the refrigerator before reheating it gently in the oven.
Tips to Make Iny’s Prune Cake
A few tips can help make your prune cake even better. First, make sure you cook the prunes until they are completely soft. This ensures that they blend well into the batter, providing moisture and flavor.
Be attentive when you mix the ingredients. Do not over-mix the batter; otherwise, the cake may become tough. Keep an eye on the baking time and check for doneness with a toothpick, as ovens can vary.
If you want to add a personal touch, consider mixing in some nuts or raisins along with the prunes for added texture and flavor. This can create a more complex taste, making the cake even more enjoyable.
Variation
While Iny’s Prune Cake is delightful as is, there are variations you might enjoy. You could replace part of the prunes with dates for a different flavor profile.
Alternatively, using almond or coconut oil in place of regular oil can bring a unique flavor twist. The spices can also be adjusted to suit your taste; try experimenting with ginger or cloves for an extra warmth.
Best Time to Make Iny’s Prune Cake
This cake is perfect for any occasion. Its warm, comforting flavor makes it ideal for cooler months or holiday celebrations. You could serve it at gatherings or bake it on a lazy Sunday afternoon as a treat for your family.
However, baking it when prunes are in season can also enhance the flavor. Think about making Iny’s Prune Cake for festive get-togethers, as it brings everyone together with its delicious aroma and taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Iny’s Prune Cake, a few common mistakes can affect the final product. One of them is not cooking the prunes long enough. Ensure they are soft and mashable for the best texture.
Another mistake is not checking the oven temperature. An inaccurately set oven can lead to either undercooked or overcooked cake. Use an oven thermometer to verify the temperature.
Finally, don’t skip the icing preparation. The combination of the hot cake and warm icing enhances the overall experience, creating a delightful treat that stands out.
Nutritional Notes
Although prunes are often overlooked, they have many health benefits. They are a good source of fiber and contain antioxidants. Iny’s Prune Cake, while indulgent, brings this element into a sweet dessert.
Keep in mind that moderation is key due to the sugar content. Enjoy this cake as a treat while benefiting from the natural goodness of prunes.
FAQs
Can I use different fruits in this cake?
Yes, you can substitute some prunes with other fruits like figs or dates for variety.
How can I tell when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it a day in advance. Just store it properly and reheat before serving.
Conclusion
Iny’s Prune Cake is not only easy to make but also delivers an explosion of flavors in every bite. The combination of moist prunes, warm spices, and a sweet icing is simply irresistible. It is a perfect blend of comfort and indulgence, making it ideal for any gathering or simply as a special treat at home. Try it out, and you may have a new favorite recipe to share with friends and family for years to come.
