Plum Cake
Snacks • India
How to Make Plum Cake (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Plum Cake is a beloved Indian snack, especially popular during the winter festivities and the Christmas season. Unlike its Western counterparts, the Indian Plum Cake is crafted with a unique blend of spices, dried fruits, and nuts, often soaked in fruit juice or homemade syrups rather than alcohol, making it suitable for all ages and occasions. The aroma of cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg infuses the cake with warmth, while the use of wholesome ingredients like atta (whole wheat flour) and gur (jaggery) adds a traditional Indian touch. In many homes across Kerala, Goa, and even in major cities, Plum Cake is baked as a celebratory treat for Christmas, New Year, and weddings. Its rich, fruity texture and mildly spiced flavor evoke nostalgia and togetherness, making it a staple during winter gatherings. This healthy recipe is a lighter twist on the classic, using less oil and substituting refined sugar with jaggery, ensuring you enjoy the authentic taste without guilt. Whether served with chai or as a festive dessert, Indian Plum Cake is an all-time favorite across generations.
Ingredients(for 1 thick slice (approx. 70g))
- 1 cup Atta (whole wheat flour) (for wholesome texture)
- 1/2 cup Jaggery (gur), grated (natural sweetener)
- 1/2 cup Mixed dried fruits (raisins, apricots, prunes) (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup Mixed nuts (cashews, almonds, walnuts) (chopped)
- 1/2 cup Milk (use plant milk for vegan)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil (or melted desi ghee)
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon powder (dalchini) (for warmth)
- 1/4 tsp Cardamom powder (elaichi) (aromatic)
- a pinch Nutmeg powder (jaiphal) (optional but recommended) - optional
- 2 tbsp Fresh orange juice (for soaking fruits)
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla essence (optional) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Pre-soak the dried fruits in fresh orange juice for at least 15 minutes. This helps them become plump and adds a tangy flavor.
15 minutes
Soaking overnight in the fridge intensifies the flavor.
- 2
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) or preheat a thick-bottomed kadhai with a stand for 10 minutes if baking without an oven.
5 minutes
Grease your tin with a drop of oil and dust with atta to prevent sticking.
- 3
In a large mixing bowl, combine atta, baking powder, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.
3 minutes
Sifting the dry ingredients gives a lighter crumb.
- 4
In another bowl, whisk grated jaggery, oil, and milk until the jaggery dissolves completely. Add vanilla essence if using.
3 minutes
Use warm milk to melt jaggery faster.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This recipe replaces maida with atta and refined sugar with jaggery, making it heart-healthy and suitable for calorie-conscious eaters. The inclusion of nuts and dried fruits provides essential nutrients, while low oil content reduces unnecessary calories. It's a wholesome, nutrient-dense treat, perfect for those seeking a guilt-free Indian snack without compromising on festive flavors.
This Indian Plum Cake is packed with fiber from atta and healthy fats from nuts, making it a nutritious snack. Jaggery provides iron and minerals, while dried fruits add natural sweetness, antioxidants, and vitamins. Spices like cinnamon and cardamom support digestion and metabolism. Using minimal oil keeps the fat content low, and milk adds a protein boost. The cake is free from processed sugar, making it a better choice for balanced energy.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always soak dried fruits ahead for a plum, moist crumb.
- 💡Tip 2: Sift atta with spices for uniform mixing and a fluffier cake.
- 💡Tip 3: Let the cake cool fully before slicing to avoid crumbling.
Storage & Serving
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week. For longer shelf life, wrap in parchment and foil.
Best served: Breakfast or Snack
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 280.0 kcal |
