If you’re craving a cozy, flavorful treat that perfectly balances sweet and spice, the Plum Cinnamon Yogurt Coffee Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. This delightful coffee cake features tender crumb flecked with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, enhanced by the slight tang of Greek yogurt, and topped with beautiful slices of fresh plums caramelized with a sprinkle of brown sugar. Every bite offers a heavenly mix of textures and tastes that will have you reaching for seconds and reminding you why homemade coffee cakes are such a pleasure to bake and share.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Plum Cinnamon Yogurt Coffee Cake Recipe, you’ll use simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create an irresistible flavor and moist texture. Each component plays a special role, from the spices warming every bite to the fresh plums adding natural sweetness and juiciness.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the foundation of the cake’s tender crumb and structure.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Work together to give the cake a light, fluffy rise.
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: Add warm, comforting spices that perfectly complement the plums.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and moisture for a buttery finish.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps create a light texture when creamed with butter.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure and richness.
- Vanilla extract: Imparts a subtle aromatic sweetness.
- Plain Greek yogurt: Adds tangy moisture that keeps the cake perfectly tender.
- Fresh plums: Bring juicy bursts of fruity flavor and a lovely pop of color.
- Brown sugar for topping: Creates a delicious caramelized crust over the plums.
How to Make Plum Cinnamon Yogurt Coffee Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your cake doesn’t stick. This simple prep step makes the final result easy to remove and serve.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Combining these dry ingredients first ensures that the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the batter, giving every bite a consistent flavor and perfect texture.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process aerates the batter, resulting in a tender and airy cake.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Yogurt
Add eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and ensure smoothness. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor, then mix in the Greek yogurt, which adds moisture and a lovely tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here, as that can lead to a dense cake. The goal is a tender crumb with just the right lift.
Step 6: Add Plums and Brown Sugar Topping
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the surface with a spatula. Arrange the plum slices in a circular, slightly overlapping pattern on top. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the plums to create a sweet, caramelized crust as the cake bakes. This topping is what will make your coffee cake stand out!
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake the coffee cake for 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This ensures the cake is fully cooked but still moist inside, with a beautiful golden crust and bubbling caramelized fruit topping.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serving it slightly warm or at room temperature allows the flavors to fully develop, making every bite a comforting delight.
How to Serve Plum Cinnamon Yogurt Coffee Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to dust a light sprinkle of powdered sugar over the cake just before serving for a pretty, bakery-style finish. A dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of vanilla ice cream can also elevate each slice, adding creamy richness to the sweet and spicy flavors.
Side Dishes
This coffee cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for a relaxed brunch or afternoon pick-me-up. A fresh fruit salad on the side can complement the plum topping, offering a fresh, light counterpoint to the moist cake.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual slices on rustic wooden boards for a charming, homemade feel. For special occasions, decorate the cake with a few extra plum slices and a sprinkle of cinnamon or edible flowers to wow your guests visually and delight their taste buds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cake stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five days to maintain freshness. The cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld.
Freezing
You can freeze this coffee cake for longer storage by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or by placing it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
For a just-baked taste, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This revives the cake’s softness and intensifies the comforting aromas that make this Plum Cinnamon Yogurt Coffee Cake Recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fruit instead of plums?
Absolutely! Fresh peaches, nectarines, or even apples would add delicious flavors while still keeping the spirit of the coffee cake. Just adjust the amount to cover the top and consider the sweetness level of your chosen fruit.
What if I don’t have Greek yogurt on hand?
You can substitute plain yogurt or sour cream in the same quantity. These will keep the cake moist and tender, although Greek yogurt adds a nice tang that complements the spices especially well.
How do I prevent the cake from becoming too dense?
Be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Gently fold them in until just combined to preserve airiness. Also, using fresh leavening agents helps ensure a light texture.
Is this cake suitable for breakfast or just dessert?
This coffee cake is wonderfully versatile. It’s perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch alongside your morning coffee, but it’s also delightful as a dessert or afternoon snack.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, making sure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavors will remain fantastic.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a cake that combines warm spices, juicy fruit, and a tender crumb with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, the Plum Cinnamon Yogurt Coffee Cake Recipe is a winner every time. It’s a beloved treat that brings a little extra warmth and joy to your table, whether shared with friends over coffee or enjoyed as a special homemade indulgence. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own favorite!
