Bohemian Prune Cake
A moist, flavorful prune cake with warm spices and crunchy nuts, perfect for teatime or special occasions, offering a delightful blend of sweetness and spice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar and shortening together until well blended.
- Add egg yolks to the creamed mixture and mix thoroughly.
- Sift together all dry ingredients: flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and soda.
- Add the dry ingredients alternately with sour milk to the mixture, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
- Fold in the chopped nuts and stewed prunes.
- Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form and gently fold into the batter.
- Pour the batter into three greased loaf pans.
- Bake at 275°F (135°C) for about 75 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. If you don't have sour milk, you can substitute it with plain yogurt or buttermilk. Ensure the prunes are well-stewed and chopped for even distribution in the batter. Be cautious not to overmix after adding the egg whites, as this will help maintain the cake's light texture. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy American recipes, particularly those featuring fruit.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful served plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. It also goes well with a cup of coffee or tea. For a unique twist, serve alongside Apple Walnut Bread Pudding for a varied dessert spread that will impress your guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Bohemian Prune Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. If you want to maintain its moisture, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm it in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bohemian Prune Cake contains roughly 648 calories, with 7g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), potassium (16% of the Daily Value), and protein (15% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh prunes instead of stewed prunes?
Yes, you can use fresh prunes, but they should be pitted and chopped before adding to the batter. If you use fresh prunes, consider lightly steaming or cooking them to soften them, ensuring they blend well into the cake and enhance its overall moisture and flavor.
What can I substitute for shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile. Both alternatives will provide a rich texture, but keep in mind that butter will add a slight flavor that might complement the spices nicely.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
The best way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. Additionally, the edges should start to pull away from the sides of the pans, indicating that the cake is properly baked.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).