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Plum Cake (Zwetschgenkuchen)
Dont hesitate to pack in all the plumsthey cook down
when you bake them, sweetening the dough.
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3-1/2 |
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cups all-purpose flour |
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1 |
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cup warm milk (105°F/41°C to 115°F/46°C) |
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1 |
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ounce fresh yeast cake or 2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active
dry yeast |
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Pinch sugar |
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1/2 |
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cup butter, melted |
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3 |
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egg yolks |
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Pinch salt |
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5 |
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pounds prune plums |
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Cinnamon-sugar |
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3/4 |
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cup chopped almonds |
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3/4 |
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cup plain bread crumbs |
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3/4 |
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cup granulated sugar |
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1/2 |
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cup plum brandy (Zwetschgenwasser) or cherry brandy (kirsch or Kirschwasser) |
In a large mixing bowl place flour; make a well in the center. In a
small bowl combine warm milk, crumbled yeast (or active dry yeast) and
pinch of sugar; stir to dissolve. Pour yeast mixture into well and let
set 5 minutes.
In a small bowl combine butter, egg yolks, and salt; add to well. Knead
liquid into dry ingredients until dough is smooth, elastic, and easy
to shape into a ball. Work in more flour (about 1/2 cup) if needed. Dust
with flour. Cover with a damp towel and proof in a warm spot until doubled,
about 1 hour.
Punch down dough; turn onto lightly floured surface and roll out 1/2-inch
thick. Place on a greased 15x10x1-inch baking sheet; cover with a damp
towel and proof for 20 minutes.
Cut plums into quarters lengthwise, removing pits. Arrange plum quarters
on dough vertically, poking ends into the dough (pack tightly); dough
should be soft enough to support plum quarters on end. Sprinkle with
cinnamon-sugar. Cover and proof for 10 minutes.
Place baking sheet inside another 15x10x1-inch baking sheet to create
an air cushion between heat source and bottom of cake. Place cake in
center of cooking grate. Cook for 40 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a dry sauté pan combine almonds and bread crumbs;
toast over medium heat until golden. Remove from heat and place in a
medium mixing bowl; cool slightly. Add sugar and plum or cherry brandy;
stir.
Remove cake from grill; sprinkle almond mixture on top of cake.
Makes about 25 2x3-inch pieces.
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