Name: Plum Yeast Cake with Lemon Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 1-1/2 cups (360 ml) whole milk; 1/2 cup (100 grams) packed dark brown sugar; 10 tablespoons (142 grams) unsalted butter; 1 tablespoon active dry yeast; 3 large (150 grams) eggs, room temperature; 4 cups (500 grams) unbleached all-purpose flour; 1-1/2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1-1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 3-4 large plums, cut into 6 pieces each; 1/4 cup (50 grams) turbinado sugar; 4 tablespoons (56 grams) unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar; 2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 44 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a treat that easily becomes a beloved classic, look no further than this Plum Yeast Cake with Lemon Glaze Recipe. This cake offers that enchanting blend of tender, yeasty dough topped with juicy, slightly tart plums, all finished off with a bright, tangy lemon glaze that brings everything to life. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring with your afternoon tea. The subtle warmth of cinnamon folded into soft, fluffy yeast dough makes every bite a little celebration, while the crisp plums add just the right pop of freshness. If you love homemade baked goods that are both rustic and elegant, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows an overhead view of six ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. At the center, there is a white bowl filled with dark purple prune plums with hints of reddish blue and natural texture visible on their skins. Above this bowl, a white bowl contains a large amount of white flour with a soft, powdery texture. To the left of the flour is a clear glass jug of white milk, and next to it is a single brown egg with a smooth shell resting directly on the surface. Below the prune plums, a small white bowl holds granulated white sugar, and to the right of it is a clear glass bowl with a solid chunk of pale yellow butter. Near the butter, a small wooden spoon holds light beige yeast granules. The ingredients are labeled clearly with black text in a simple font. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Plum Yeast Cake with Lemon Glaze Recipe uses simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients that work together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays a role, whether it’s enriching the dough, balancing sweetness, or adding that signature fruity brightness.

Whole milk (1-½ cups): Provides a creamy base that nourishes the yeast and tenderizes the cake crumb.

Dark brown sugar (½ cup): Adds deep, molasses-like sweetness to enrich the dough’s flavor.
Unsalted butter (10 tablespoons + 4 tablespoons): Used in the dough and for drizzling, it brings richness and a luscious mouthfeel.
Active dry yeast (1 tablespoon): Essential for creating the light, airy texture through gentle fermentation.

Large eggs (3): Bind moisture and provide structure while contributing to the cake’s golden color.
Unbleached all-purpose flour (4 cups): The backbone of the cake, ensuring a soft but sturdy crumb.
Kosher salt (1-½ teaspoons): Balances sweetness and enhances the complexity of flavors.

Ground cinnamon (1-½ teaspoons): Offers a warm, aromatic note that complements the fruit beautifully.
Plums (3-4 large, cut into 6 pieces each): The star ingredient, bringing a juicy tartness and vibrant color.
Turbinado sugar (¼ cup): Sprinkled on top for crunchy caramelized texture and sweetness.

Powdered sugar (1 cup): The base for the fresh lemon glaze that ties the cake’s flavor profile together.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice (2-3 tablespoons): Adds bright acidity to balance the sweetness in the glaze.

How to Make Plum Yeast Cake with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Start by lightly buttering and flouring a 13 by 9-inch baking pan, then line it with parchment paper that overhangs the long sides. This setup makes it easier to lift out your perfectly baked cake once it’s done, preventing any sticking or frustration when removing it.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

Combine the milk, dark brown sugar, and 10 tablespoons of butter in a non-reactive saucepan, gently heating to 110°F until the butter is nearly melted. Stir in the active dry yeast and let the mixture stand for 10 minutes. You’ll notice bubbles and a slight expansion in the liquid—this magical sign tells you the yeast is ready to work its fermentation charm, laying the foundation for a wonderfully airy cake.

Step 3: Make the Batter

Whisk together the flour, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl, then add lightly beaten eggs. Slowly pour in the milk and yeast mixture and gently stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until fully incorporated and no flour remains visible. Spread this batter evenly in your prepared pan and cover with plastic wrap to rest.

Step 4: Let the Dough Rise

If you’re baking immediately, place the dough in a warm spot—your oven’s proofing setting or warmed oven top works beautifully—and allow it to rise for about an hour. The dough should double in size, swelling with the promise of a soft, airy crumb. Alternatively, refrigerate it for up to 8 hours if you want to bake later; the slow rise will deepen the flavor even more.

Step 5: Prepare the Plums

While the dough is rising, wash and cut each plum into six pieces. These chunks will nestle on top of the batter before baking, adding bursts of juicy color and tangy sweetness.

Step 6: Preheat, Top, and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F about 15 minutes before the dough finishes rising. Melt the remaining butter and arrange the plums on top of the batter in groups of three for a beautiful pattern. Sprinkle turbinado sugar evenly over the plums and drizzle with butter to help create a golden, caramelized top once baked. Bake for 30 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 325°F, rotate the pan, and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes. Look for a golden brown top that starts pulling away from the edges of the pan.

Step 7: Make the Lemon Glaze and Serve

While the cake is still warm, whisk powdered sugar with freshly squeezed lemon juice until smooth, then drizzle this glaze generously over the top. The glaze adds a zesty brightness that perfectly contrasts with the sweet and cinnamon-laced cake beneath.

How to Serve Plum Yeast Cake with Lemon Glaze Recipe

A square piece of cake with three visible layers sits on a white plate with gold and blue rim details; the bottom layer is dense and light beige, the middle layer shows soft pink and red fruit filling, and the top layer is golden brown with whole baked plum slices and white icing drizzle. In the background, a wooden board with parchment paper holds more pieces of the same cake, all against a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your serving look extra special, sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar or finely chopped fresh mint leaves. A few thin lemon zest curls on top also enhance the citrus notes in the glaze, making your presentation as inviting as the taste.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a lighter option, a simple cup of hot herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee complements the cake’s sweetness and earthy plum flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the cake into squares and serving it alongside individual bowls of extra lemon glaze or plum compote for dipping. You could also layer slices with whipped cream and fresh plum slices to create an elegant trifle-inspired dessert that wows any guest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any uneaten cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This prevents the cake from drying out while preserving the soft crumb and juicy plum topping.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight to maintain the cake’s delicate texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm individual slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or gently reheat in a 325°F oven covered with foil for about 10 minutes. The lemon glaze stays delicious even after reheating, adding a fresh zing with every bite.

FAQs

Can I substitute other fruits for the plums in this Plum Yeast Cake with Lemon Glaze Recipe?

Absolutely! While plums offer a fantastic balance of tartness and sweetness, stone fruits like peaches, nectarines, or apricots make excellent alternatives. Just adjust the quantity to ensure even coverage and similar juiciness.

Is it necessary to use active dry yeast, or can instant yeast work too?

You can use instant yeast if that’s what you have on hand. Reduce the activation time and mix it directly with the dry ingredients for convenience. Keep in mind, the flavor buildup from a longer fermentation with active yeast is uniquely lovely.

How thick should the lemon glaze be?

The glaze should be smooth but thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too runny, add a bit more powdered sugar; if too thick, add a splash more lemon juice. This ensures it drizzles nicely over the warm cake without soaking in too quickly.

Can this cake be made gluten-free?

With some adjustments, yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for baking and ensure it contains xanthan gum for structure. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavors will still shine beautifully.

How long does the dough need to rise?

Typically, the dough doubles in size after about an hour in a warm spot. However, ambient temperature and humidity can affect rising time, so keep an eye on its size rather than the clock to judge readiness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about baking and sharing this Plum Yeast Cake with Lemon Glaze Recipe. From the joyful anticipation during the dough’s rise to that first tender, fruity bite topped with a zingy lemon glaze, every moment is a celebration of simple but unforgettable flavors. Whether you’re treating yourself or delighting guests, this cake’s delightful textures and flavors are sure to become a cherished favorite in your home, so don’t hesitate to dive in!

Plum Yeast Cake with Lemon Glaze Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need