Healthy Plum Cake with Lemon Cashew Icing 🍰

Healthy Plum Cake with Lemon Cashew Icing: A Wholesome Treat to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

When it comes to enjoying a delightful dessert without the guilt, few recipes hit the mark quite like this Healthy Plum Cake with Lemon Cashew Icing. Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with natural sweetness, this cake is perfect for those looking to indulge responsibly. Let’s dive into this delicious and health-conscious recipe that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1/2 lb. (225 g) fresh plums, pitted and cut into wedges
• 1 cup (226 g) butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup (140 g) coconut sugar
• 4 eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup (150 g) whole wheat flour
• 1 cup (100 g) almond flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• ½ tablespoon cinnamon
• ½ cup dates, chopped
• ¼ cup cashews, halved

For the Icing:

• 1/4 cup cashew butter (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon almond milk, or more as needed

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Pan: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9-inch springform pan with baking paper and butter the sides to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Batter: In a large bowl, beat the butter and coconut sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in whole wheat flour, almond flour, baking soda, and cinnamon until the mixture is uniform.
4. Add Fruits and Nuts: Stir in the chopped dates for a burst of natural sweetness. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing out the top. Arrange the plum wedges in a beautiful circle on the batter, pressing them slightly. Sprinkle halved cashews over the top for a crunchy finish.
5. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. This will ensure your cake is perfectly cooked through.
6. Cool: Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack for about 20 minutes. This step is crucial for the cake to set properly before icing.

For the Icing:

1. Create the Icing: In a small bowl, whisk together cashew butter, maple syrup, and lemon juice. Add almond milk gradually until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
2. Ice Your Cake: Once the cake is cool, drizzle or spread the lemon cashew icing over the top, letting it drip down the sides for a tempting presentation.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is a standout on its own, but you can elevate it further with a sprinkle of lemon zest or a handful of crushed nuts on top. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of herbal tea or a light coffee, making it the perfect treat for an afternoon snack or a post-dinner dessert.

Nutritional Insight

Every component of this cake has been chosen with health in mind. From the fiber-rich whole wheat and almond flours to the natural fats in the cashews and the antioxidants in the plums, this recipe is a powerhouse of nutrients that support a healthy lifestyle.

Conclusion

This Healthy Plum Cake with Lemon Cashew Icing is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a boon for your health. Easy to make and even easier to fall in love with, it’s a recipe that beautifully blends nutrition with indulgence. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, give this recipe a try and watch it become a new favorite in your home!