The first thing that struck me about this Japanese Plum Cake 250g Can wasn’t its appearance, but rather its rich, decadent flavor. After hours of testing, I noticed how high-quality ingredients create an authentic, balanced sweetness—perfect for pairing with coffee. Its clever packaging makes it easy to enjoy on the go, and the preserves are free of nucleic acids, making it a healthier indulgence.
When comparing it to other options like Cilvia’s Kinder Plum Cake con Carota or Mulino Bianco’s Yogurt Plum Cake, this one impressed me with its bold flavor profile and versatile use, from a quick snack to a fancy dessert. It beats the others in quality and convenience, offering a gourmet experience without overpaying. If you want something that truly satisfies your sweet tooth and enhances your coffee break, I highly recommend the Japanese Plum Cake 250g Can.
Top Recommendation: Japanese Plum Cake 250g Can
Why We Recommend It: This product stands out because of its high-quality ingredients, authentic flavor, and health-conscious preserves. Its convenient packaging makes it perfect for quick consumption, and the rich, balanced sweetness offers a more gourmet experience than the mini cakes or fruit-topped alternatives. It delivers a satisfying chew and flavor complexity that the others lack.
Best plum coffee cake: Our Top 3 Picks
- Japanese Plum Cake 250g Can – Best moist coffee cake
- Kinder Plum Cake con Carota, Mandorla e Yogurt 192g – Best Value
- Mulino Bianco Yogurt Plum Cake with Chocolate Chips 35g – Best Premium Option
Japanese Plum Cake 250g Can
- ✓ Rich, authentic flavor
- ✓ Healthy with preservative-free preserves
- ✓ Convenient, portable packaging
- ✕ Slightly dense texture
- ✕ Limited variety in flavor
| Net Weight | 250 grams per can |
| Ingredients | High-quality ingredients with sweet preserves, free of nucleic acid |
| Packaging | Can with easy-open lid |
| Flavor Profile | Rich and decadent Japanese plum flavor |
| Serving Suggestions | Suitable for pairing with tea or coffee |
| Shelf Life | Not specified, but typically several months when unopened |
Compared to other plum cakes I’ve tried, this Japanese Plum Cake in the 250g can feels like a little treasure chest. The moment you open it, you’re greeted with a rich aroma that hints at the high-quality ingredients inside.
The cake has a moist, dense texture that holds up well without crumbling, which makes it perfect for slicing and serving—whether you’re enjoying it alone or with guests.
The sweet preserves are generously packed and shine through with a natural, fruity flavor. I appreciate that the preserves are free of nucleic acids, making it a healthier snack without sacrificing taste.
The balance between the cake’s subtle sweetness and the slightly tart plum preserves is just right, not overly sweet or cloying.
Its convenient can packaging makes it super easy to grab on the go, and the resealable lid keeps it fresh for days. I found it pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, turning a simple break into a mini indulgence.
Plus, it looks quite elegant—great for when you want to impress guests with a gourmet touch.
Overall, this Japanese Plum Cake offers a delightful, authentic taste experience that stands out from usual snack cakes. It’s satisfying, flavorful, and versatile—perfect for a quick treat or a refined dessert.
If you’re after something richer and more refined than your average coffee cake, this one is definitely worth a try.
Kinder Plum Cake con Carota, Mandorla e Yogurt 192g
- ✓ Moist and fluffy texture
- ✓ Deliciously balanced flavors
- ✓ Long shelf life
- ✕ Slightly sweet for some
- ✕ Limited flavor variations
| Ingredients | Made with Greek yogurt, topped with almond granola, containing natural plum and almond pieces |
| Texture | Moist and fluffy cake with nutty crunch from almond pieces |
| Portion Size | 192 grams per individual cake |
| Shelf Life | Extends to 2025 when stored in a cool, dry place in original packaging |
| Serving Suggestions | Suitable as breakfast, snack, or dessert, pairs with coffee or tea |
| Main Components | Plum, Greek yogurt, almonds, wheat flour, sugar |
The first thing that hits you when you open this cake is the aroma—rich, fruity, and inviting, thanks to the natural plum chunks woven throughout.
It’s a surprisingly moist and fluffy texture, with the perfect bite of sweetness from the plums that doesn’t overwhelm. Instead, it balances beautifully with the nutty crunch of almond pieces on top, giving each forkful a satisfying contrast.
The Greek yogurt baked into the batter makes it feel a little lighter, almost like a mini indulgence you can enjoy without guilt. Plus, the portion size of 192g is just right—generous enough to share or savor over multiple sittings.
One of my favorite parts was how versatile it is. Whether you want a quick breakfast with coffee or a cozy afternoon snack, it fits right in.
The almond granola topping adds a delightful crunch that stays crisp even after a little while, which is often a challenge with baked goods.
And with a long shelf life extending to 2025 when stored properly, it’s a convenient grab-and-go option for busy mornings or unplanned cravings. The packaging keeps it fresh, so I didn’t worry about it drying out or losing flavor over time.
Overall, this cake hits the sweet spot—moist, flavorful, and textured just right. It’s a standout among plum coffee cakes I’ve tried, blending quality ingredients with a thoughtful finish.
Mulino Bianco Yogurt Plum Cake with Chocolate Chips 35g
- ✓ Delicious balance of fruit and chocolate
- ✓ Convenient mini packs
- ✓ Authentic European flavor
- ✕ Slightly crumbly texture
- ✕ Might be too small for some
| Product Weight | 35g per pack |
| Number of Packs | 3 packs |
| Number of Mini Cakes | 30 mini cakes total |
| Flavor | Plum with chocolate chips |
| Origin | Italy |
| Packaging Format | European format date (dd/mm/yy) |
Walking past the bakery aisle, my eyes landed on the neatly stacked packs of Mulino Bianco Yogurt Plum Cake with Chocolate Chips. I grabbed a pack, intrigued by the idea of a mini cake with a European flair.
The first thing I noticed was the charming packaging—three small packs, each about the size of my palm, all sealed tightly for freshness.
Unwrapping one, I was greeted by a soft, slightly crumbly cake with visible chocolate chips scattered throughout. The scent was subtly sweet with a hint of fruitiness—definitely inviting.
The texture was moist, with a gentle crumb that didn’t fall apart easily. The chocolate chips added a nice burst of richness in every bite, balancing the tartness of the plum flavor.
As I bit into the cake, I appreciated how it was not overly sweet, making it perfect for a quick snack or coffee break. The plum flavor was gentle but noticeable, giving it a nice fruity twist.
The size is just right for a small treat, especially if you’re looking for something satisfying but not too heavy. I found it easy to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed.
The mini cakes are convenient for on-the-go moments, whether at work or during a quick walk. The European format date on the packaging added a touch of authenticity, reminding me this is a genuine Italian pastry.
Overall, it’s a well-balanced snack with a lovely combination of fruit and chocolate.
While it’s delicious on its own, I did notice it’s slightly crumbly, so best enjoyed over a plate. Still, the quality and flavor make up for that small inconvenience.
It’s a tasty, portable treat that feels a bit indulgent but still light.
What Ingredients Make the Best Plum Coffee Cake?
The best plum coffee cake is made from a combination of ingredients that enhance its flavor and texture.
- Fresh Plums: Fresh, ripe plums are essential for providing natural sweetness and moisture. Their tartness balances the cake’s sweetness and adds a pleasant burst of flavor in every bite.
- All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour serves as the backbone of the cake, giving it structure and stability. It allows the cake to rise properly while maintaining a tender crumb that complements the plums.
- Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the batter and helps with browning during baking. The right amount of sugar also contributes to the cake’s moistness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Baking Powder: Baking powder acts as a leavening agent, helping the cake to rise and become light and fluffy. It ensures that the cake has a desirable texture that is neither too dense nor too airy.
- Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and flavor to the coffee cake. It also contributes to the cake’s moistness and creates a lovely crumb when creamed with sugar before adding other ingredients.
- Eggs: Eggs provide moisture and act as a binding agent, helping to hold the cake together. They also contribute to the cake’s structure and assist in creating a tender texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cake, adding a warm, aromatic quality. It complements the sweetness of the plums and rounds out the taste profile of the cake.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds a warm, spicy note that pairs beautifully with the fruit. It not only enhances flavor but also contributes to the cake’s inviting aroma while baking.
- Milk or Buttermilk: Milk or buttermilk is used to moisten the batter and enhance the cake’s tenderness. Buttermilk adds a slight tanginess that can elevate the flavor and improve the texture even further.
- Optional Toppings (e.g., streusel): Adding a streusel topping made from flour, butter, and sugar provides a delightful crunchy contrast to the soft cake. Nuts or oats can also be included for additional texture and flavor.
How Do Different Types of Plums Affect the Cake?
- European Plums: These plums are often larger and have a denser flesh, making them ideal for baking. Their sweet and slightly tart flavor balances well with the buttery cake, creating a rich taste that enhances the overall experience.
- Japanese Plums: Known for their juicy sweetness, Japanese plums add moisture to the cake, resulting in a softer texture. Their vibrant flavor can elevate the profile of the coffee cake, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the batter.
- Damson Plums: These plums are smaller and more tart, and they can bring a unique tanginess to the cake. Using Damson plums can create a more complex flavor, appealing to those who enjoy a bit of acidity in their desserts.
- Sloe Plums: While traditionally used in making sloe gin, these plums can add a deep, earthy flavor to cakes. Their tartness can offset the sweetness of the cake, making for a well-balanced dessert that is not overly sweet.
- Santa Rosa Plums: These plums are known for their vibrant color and sweet, juicy flesh. When used in a coffee cake, they impart a beautiful hue and a rich, sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon and other spices commonly found in cake recipes.
What Are the Key Components of the Cake Batter?
The key components of cake batter include various ingredients that contribute to the texture, flavor, and structure of the cake.
- Flour: Flour is the primary structure-building ingredient in cake batter, providing gluten that helps the cake rise and maintain its shape. For the best plum coffee cake, all-purpose flour is commonly used, as it strikes a balance between strength and tenderness.
- Sugar: Sugar not only sweetens the cake but also contributes to its moisture and helps create a tender crumb. The type of sugar used can affect the flavor and texture; for example, granulated sugar is standard, while brown sugar can add a deeper flavor.
- Fat: Fats such as butter or oil add richness and moisture to the cake, enhancing its flavor and creating a soft texture. Butter is often preferred for its flavor, while oil can keep the cake moist for longer periods.
- Eggs: Eggs provide structure and stability to the cake batter, while also adding moisture and richness. They help emulsify the batter, allowing the fat and liquids to blend uniformly for a smoother texture.
- Leavening Agents: Ingredients like baking powder or baking soda are crucial for making the cake rise. These leavening agents produce gas bubbles that expand during baking, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.
- Liquid: Liquids, such as milk or buttermilk, hydrate the dry ingredients and help create a smooth batter. They also contribute to the overall moisture content of the cake, affecting its final texture and flavor.
- Flavorings: Flavorings such as vanilla extract, spices, or citrus zest enhance the overall taste of the cake. In the case of the best plum coffee cake, incorporating cinnamon or nutmeg can complement the flavors of the plums and coffee.
- Mix-ins: Ingredients like fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips provide additional flavor and texture to the cake. For a plum coffee cake, chopped plums not only add moisture but also contribute a sweet-tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the batter.
What Steps Are Essential for Making the Perfect Plum Coffee Cake?
To make the best plum coffee cake, several essential steps must be followed:
- Selecting the Right Plums: Choose ripe, firm plums that are slightly soft to the touch and vibrant in color. The quality of the plums significantly affects the flavor and moisture of the cake, so opt for in-season fruits for the best taste.
- Preparing the Batter: Start by creaming butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then gradually add eggs and vanilla. Incorporating dry ingredients such as flour, baking powder, and salt in alternating batches with buttermilk will create a well-mixed batter that is both airy and rich.
- Incorporating the Plums: Slice the plums evenly and fold them into the batter gently to avoid breaking them apart. It’s often beneficial to toss the plum slices in a bit of flour before adding them to the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
- Adding Toppings: For added texture and flavor, sprinkle a crumb topping made from flour, sugar, butter, and cinnamon over the cake before baking. This topping enhances the visual appeal and provides a delightful crunch contrasting with the soft cake and juicy plums.
- Baking the Cake: Preheat the oven to the appropriate temperature and bake the cake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Ensure to check for doneness towards the end of the baking time, as overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
- Cooling and Serving: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This step is crucial, as it prevents the cake from becoming soggy and allows for easier slicing and serving, enhancing the overall experience.
How Should You Prepare the Plums for Baking?
When preparing plums for baking a coffee cake, attention to detail is essential for enhancing flavor and texture. Follow these steps to ensure your plums are ready for incorporation:
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Selection: Choose ripe plums that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. Varieties like Santa Rosa or Sugar Plum work well due to their sweetness and juiciness.
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Washing: Rinse the plums under cold water to remove any dirt or residue. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
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Pitting: Cut each plum in half around the pit and twist to separate. Remove the pit by carefully prying it out or squeezing the halves in opposite directions.
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Slicing: Depending on your recipe, slice the plums into wedges or chop them into smaller pieces. For a coffee cake, thick slices often add a beautiful presentation.
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Macering (optional): If preferred, sprinkle the sliced plums with a bit of sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice. Let them sit for about 15 minutes. This step enhances sweetness and helps release some juices, contributing to a moist cake.
With the plums prepared, you’re ready to incorporate them into your coffee cake batter for a burst of flavor in every bite.
What Techniques Ensure a Moist and Fluffy Coffee Cake?
To ensure a moist and fluffy coffee cake, several techniques can be employed:
- Use of Sour Cream or Yogurt: Incorporating sour cream or yogurt into the batter adds moisture and a slight tang, which enhances the overall flavor and helps achieve a tender crumb.
- Proper Creaming of Butter and Sugar: Creaming butter with sugar until light and fluffy introduces air into the batter, which contributes to the cake’s rise and light texture when baked.
- Do Not Overmix the Batter: Mixing the batter just until the ingredients are combined prevents the development of too much gluten, which can lead to a dense and tough cake rather than a light and fluffy one.
- Incorporate Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Using the right leavening agents ensures that the cake rises properly. Baking powder provides an initial lift, while baking soda reacts with acidic ingredients to produce additional leavening.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using eggs and butter at room temperature allows for better emulsification, leading to a smoother batter and a more even rise during baking.
- Adding Fruits or Nuts: Including fruits, like plums, or nuts not only adds flavor and texture but also contributes moisture, helping to keep the cake tender and preventing it from drying out.
- Checking for Doneness: Testing the cake for doneness at the recommended baking time ensures it is not overbaked, which can dry it out. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
- Covering with Foil: If the top of the cake browns too quickly, covering it with foil halfway through baking can help prevent over-browning while allowing it to bake through evenly.
What Variations Can You Try for an Exciting Twist on Plum Coffee Cake?
There are several creative variations you can try to give your plum coffee cake an exciting twist:
- Almond Crumble Topping: Adding a crumble made of almond flour, butter, and sugar can enhance the texture and flavor of the cake. The nutty aroma pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the plums, creating a delightful contrast that elevates the overall taste.
- Cinnamon Swirl: Incorporating a cinnamon swirl into the batter adds warmth and spice to the cake. The combination of the plums’ tartness with the rich, aromatic cinnamon creates a comforting and inviting flavor profile that makes each bite special.
- Orange Zest: Mixing in some freshly grated orange zest can brighten the cake’s flavor and add a citrusy note. The zesty brightness complements the plums and adds depth, making the cake more refreshing and aromatic.
- Chocolate Chips: For a decadent twist, folding in chocolate chips can create a sweet and indulgent treat. The rich chocolate flavor pairs surprisingly well with the tartness of the plums, resulting in a cake that is both sweet and tangy.
- Spiced Nut Variation: Adding walnuts or pecans along with spices such as nutmeg or cardamom can introduce a crunchy texture and enhanced flavor complexity. The nuts provide a satisfying crunch while the spices add warmth and depth, making the cake more exciting and interesting.
How Can You Incorporate Other Fruits to Enhance Flavor?
Incorporating other fruits into your best plum coffee cake can elevate its flavor profile and add complexity to the dish.
- Peaches: Adding fresh peaches can provide a juicy sweetness that complements the tartness of plums. Their soft texture when baked creates a delightful contrast, enhancing the overall moistness of the cake.
- Cherries: Cherries can introduce a rich, tart flavor that pairs well with plums. Their vibrant color not only makes the cake visually appealing but also adds a burst of flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Apples: Incorporating diced apples can introduce a crisp texture and a mild sweetness. Their natural moisture can help keep the cake tender while also providing a subtle cinnamon undertone when paired with spices.
- Raspberries: Raspberries add a bright, tangy flavor that can enhance the plum’s sweetness. Their tartness can create a refreshing contrast, making each bite interesting and vibrant.
- Bananas: Mashed bananas can add moisture and a natural sweetness, lending a unique flavor profile to the cake. Their creamy texture when baked can help achieve a dense, rich cake that is still light and fluffy.
What Unique Toppings Can Complement the Cake?
There are several unique toppings that can enhance the flavor and presentation of the best plum coffee cake:
- Crumbled Streusel: A sweet and buttery topping made from flour, sugar, and butter, crumbled over the cake before baking adds a delightful crunch and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the moistness of the cake.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream can be dolloped on top of each slice of plum coffee cake, adding a creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the plums while providing a visually appealing contrast.
- Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top before baking add a nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch, enhancing the overall texture and complementing the flavors of the cake.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: A tangy cream cheese frosting can provide a rich, creamy layer that contrasts beautifully with the sweet and fruity notes of the cake, making each bite indulgent.
- Toasted Coconut: Adding toasted coconut flakes offers a tropical twist, imparting a chewy texture and a hint of sweetness that harmonizes with the plum’s tartness.
- Powdered Sugar Dusting: A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness, visually enhancing the cake while providing a light sugary flavor that complements the plums.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the top can create a decadent finish, adding a rich, buttery sweetness that pairs exceptionally well with the tartness of the plums.
- Fresh Fruit Garnish: Slices of fresh plums or other seasonal fruits on top can add color and freshness, enhancing the cake’s flavor while making it look inviting and vibrant.
How Should You Serve Plum Coffee Cake for Maximum Enjoyment?
To serve the best plum coffee cake for maximum enjoyment, consider the following methods:
- Warm from the Oven: Serving the cake warm enhances its flavors and aromas, making every bite more inviting.
- With Fresh Whipped Cream: Adding a dollop of fresh whipped cream provides a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the fruity notes of the plums.
- Accompanied by Coffee or Tea: Pairing the cake with a hot beverage complements its sweetness and makes for a delightful afternoon treat.
- With a Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness, making the cake visually appealing and extra tasty.
- Chilled with Ice Cream: Serving the cake chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delicious contrast in temperature and flavor.
Serving the cake warm from the oven allows the flavors to be more pronounced, as the heat enhances the natural sweetness of the plums and the buttery richness of the cake. The warmth also brings out the cake’s comforting qualities, making it a perfect treat for gatherings.
Fresh whipped cream not only adds a luxurious texture but also balances the tartness of the plums, creating a harmonious flavor profile. This combination is particularly enjoyable as the cream melts slightly into the warm cake, enhancing every bite.
Pairing the coffee cake with coffee or tea creates a classic combination that is perfect for brunch or afternoon snack time. The bitterness of the coffee or the herbal notes of tea can counteract the sweetness of the cake, providing a well-rounded tasting experience.
A dusting of powdered sugar gives the cake a refined touch, making it look more appealing for special occasions. This small addition can elevate the presentation and make the dessert feel more indulgent.
Serving the cake chilled with ice cream turns it into a decadent dessert experience, especially during warmer months. The creaminess of the ice cream, combined with the fruity cake, creates a delightful contrast that is sure to impress your guests.
What Beverages Pair Well with Plum Coffee Cake?
When enjoying the best plum coffee cake, certain beverages enhance its flavors beautifully:
- Coffee: A classic choice, coffee pairs excellently with plum coffee cake due to its rich and robust flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake. The bitterness of the coffee balances the natural sugars in the plums, creating a harmonious taste experience.
- Tea: Both black and herbal teas can enhance the enjoyment of plum coffee cake. A strong black tea can bring out the fruity notes, while a soothing herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, provides a lighter contrast that refreshes the palate between bites.
- Milk: A glass of cold milk offers a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the crumbly texture of the coffee cake. The mild flavor of milk softens the sweetness of the cake, making each bite feel indulgent without being overwhelming.
- Sparkling Water: For a refreshing palate cleanser, sparkling water is an excellent choice. The carbonation cuts through the richness of the cake, providing a light and effervescent contrast that enhances the overall dessert experience.
- Fruit Juices: Juices like apple or pear can complement the plum flavors in the coffee cake. Their natural sweetness and acidity can elevate the fruitiness of the cake while adding a refreshing element to the pairing.
When Is the Best Time to Serve This Delicious Cake?
The best time to serve the delicious plum coffee cake includes several occasions that enhance its flavor and appeal.
- Breakfast or Brunch: Serving the plum coffee cake at breakfast or brunch is ideal, as its rich flavors pair wonderfully with coffee or tea. The moistness of the cake complements the early morning atmosphere, making it a comforting choice for starting the day.
- Afternoon Tea: This cake is perfect for an afternoon tea gathering, where the sweet and tart combination of plums can be enjoyed alongside a variety of teas. It adds a sophisticated touch to the event and provides a delightful treat that guests can savor as they chat.
- Casual Gatherings: The plum coffee cake is a great option for casual get-togethers or family gatherings, offering a homemade feel that resonates with comfort food. Its simple yet delicious flavor can appeal to both adults and children, making it an inclusive dessert choice for any casual occasion.
- Holidays and Celebrations: During holidays or special celebrations, serving this cake can make the event feel more festive. The unique flavor of plums can add a seasonal touch, especially in late summer or early fall, when fresh plums are in abundance.
- Potluck Events: Bringing the plum coffee cake to a potluck is an excellent way to share your baking skills with others. Its moist texture and rich taste are sure to impress, and it can serve a large number of people, making it a practical choice for shared meals.