Name: Gluten-Free Plum Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 150 grams Gluten Free Multi Purpose Flour; 100 grams granulated white sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 100 grams unsalted butter, room temperature - cut in small pieces; 600 grams Italian Plums; Zest of 1 Lemon; 100 grams granulated white sugar; 140 grams Gluten Free Multi Purpose Flour; 3 grams (3/4 teaspoon) baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 125 grams unsalted butter, room temperature; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 5 reviews

If you are looking for a delightful dessert that brings both comfort and a burst of fresh fruit flavor, this Gluten-Free Plum Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe is an absolute treasure. Imagine tender, moist cake kissed with the sweet tang of ripe Italian plums and crowned with a crunchy, buttery streusel topping that adds the perfect texture contrast. It’s a gluten-free wonder that doesn’t compromise on flavor or indulgence, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family on any special occasion or cozy afternoon. Once you try this cake, it might just become your new go-to treat for seasonal fruit baking.

Ingredients You'll Need

A silver mixing bowl sits on a white marbled surface, holding several ingredients. Inside, there is a layer of white flour with a rough texture. On top of the flour are two bright yellow egg yolks with clear egg whites around them on the right side. Scattered around the yolks are cubes of light yellow butter, soft and creamy in texture. The edges of the bowl show some flour dust sticking to them. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple yet purposeful. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the fragrant spices that enhance the plums’ natural sweetness to the gluten-free flours that ensure the cake stays tender and fluffy. Together, they create a wholesome cake that is both satisfying and visually inviting.

150 grams Gluten Free Multi Purpose Flour: Provides the structure of the streusel topping while keeping it light and crumbly.
100 grams granulated white sugar: Sweetens the streusel topping without overpowering the delicate plum flavor.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the streusel that perfectly complements the fruit.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors in both the cake and streusel.
100 grams unsalted butter, room temperature: Imparts richness and moisture to the streusel topping, creating that delightful crunch.
600 grams of Italian Plums: The star fruit of the recipe, bursting with juiciness and a slight tartness that shines through the cake.
Zest of 1 Lemon: Provides a fresh citrus aroma that brightens the entire batter.
100 grams granulated white sugar: Sweetens the cake’s base mixture, balancing the tartness from the plums.
140 grams Gluten Free Multi Purpose Flour: Gives the cake its tender and light crumb, essential for gluten-free baking success.
3 grams (¾ teaspoon) baking powder: Leavens the cake to rise perfectly, creating a fluffy texture.
½ teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a subtle spicy warmth that layers beautifully with cinnamon and plums.
125 grams unsalted butter, room temperature: Makes the cake rich and moist, blending effortlessly with the eggs.
2 large eggs, at room temperature: Bind the ingredients and give the cake its structure and smooth texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a fragrant sweetness that rounds out the flavors in the batter.

How to Make Gluten-Free Plum Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping

Start by combining the gluten-free flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and room temperature butter in your stand mixer's bowl fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until the mixture turns into clumps and streusel texture forms. This buttery topping is the secret to that perfect crunch on top. Once ready, transfer it to a small bowl and pop it in the fridge to chill while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Preheat and Prep Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a springform pan with nonstick cooking spray and line the bottom with parchment paper. This ensures your cake releases easily after baking and keeps the bottom perfectly intact.

Step 3: Prepare the Plums

Using a sharp paring knife, halve each Italian plum carefully. The juicy fruit halves will be nestled right into the cake batter later, so having them neatly cut is essential for even cooking and beautiful presentation.

Step 4: Mix the Cake Batter

Back to your mixing bowl, add the white sugar and lemon zest. Using your hands, gently rub the zest into the sugar—this little step unlocks an amazing citrus fragrance that makes this cake glow. Next, add the gluten-free flour, baking powder, kosher salt, and ground ginger. Incorporate the softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Start mixing at low speed to bring the dough together, then increase to medium-high and mix for 2 minutes. Don’t forget to stop halfway and scrape down the bowl sides to ensure everyone gets mixed evenly.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Transfer your beautifully combined plum cake batter into the prepared springform pan. Using a small offset knife or spatula, smooth the batter out evenly. Arrange the plum halves cut side up on top of the batter, pressing them in gently to nestle them slightly. Finally, crown the cake with the chilled streusel topping, distributing it evenly to cover all the fruit and batter.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Delicious

Bake your cake at 350°F for 55 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the streusel topping turns a gorgeous golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen by this time will be irresistible.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

After baking, remove the cake from the oven and set it on a cooling rack. Allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before carefully releasing the springform pan’s ring. You can serve the cake warm or let it cool completely depending on your preference, with a light dusting of powdered sugar for that final touch.

How to Serve Gluten-Free Plum Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe

The image shows thick slices of plum cake with three visible layers: a golden brown crust on the bottom, a soft yellow cake layer with a vibrant red-purple plum filling in the middle, and a crumbly light beige streusel topping dusted with white powdered sugar on top. The cake slices rest on crumpled brown parchment paper, and there are halved plums with deep purple skin and yellow-orange flesh placed near the cake. The background has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

This cake shines on its own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a festive, snowy look and slight sweetness contrast that enhances the baked plums. Fresh mint leaves or a few thin lemon slices on the side elevate the presentation with a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair this plum cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to add creaminess and balance the subtle tartness of the plums. If you prefer beverages, a warm cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee complements the warm spices in this cake perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more interactive dessert experience, slice the cake into squares and serve alongside small bowls of mixed berries or plum compote. Alternatively, serve mini versions in ramekins topped with streusel for a charming individual treat that’s perfect for gatherings or celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Gluten-Free Plum Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe stays delicious when stored properly. Simply place the cake in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will keep fresh for up to 3 days, making it a great option for make-ahead desserts or snacks.

Freezing

This plum cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It will maintain its superb flavor and texture for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake warm after storage, reheat slices gently in a microwave for about 20 seconds or warm in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes. This refreshes the streusel’s crispness while warming the juicy plums to lovely softness once again.

FAQs

Is this Gluten-Free Plum Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe suitable for people with gluten intolerance?

Yes! All the flours used in this recipe are gluten-free, making it a safe and delicious choice for anyone avoiding gluten. Just be sure to use certified gluten-free ingredients to prevent cross-contamination.

Can I substitute the Italian plums with other fruits?

Absolutely. While Italian plums add a wonderful balance of sweetness and tartness, you can experiment with other stone fruits like peaches, nectarines, or apricots. Just adjust the baking time slightly depending on the moisture content of your chosen fruit.

Is it necessary to chill the streusel topping before baking?

Chilling the streusel topping helps it hold its shape and creates that perfect crumbly texture after baking. You can skip this step if you’re in a hurry, but the topping might melt into the cake a bit more.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, by substituting the butter with a quality plant-based alternative and using dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, you can adapt this cake for a dairy-free diet without sacrificing the rich texture that butter provides.

How do I know when the plum cake is fully baked?

The cake is done when the streusel topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Avoid overbaking to ensure the cake remains tender and the plums juicy.

Final Thoughts

This Gluten-Free Plum Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe is truly a comforting slice of heaven that combines nourishing gluten-free ingredients with the juicy sweetness of fresh plums and the satisfying crunch of streusel. Baking it is a joyful process, and every bite feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!

Gluten-Free Plum Cake with Streusel Topping Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need