Juicy Plum Sheet Cake with Crispy Streusel

Introduction

This juicy plum cake brings the late summer harvest straight to your table and is wonderful for children from three years of age. Kneading the dough together supports fine motor skills, while the fresh fruit provides valuable vitamins. Baking becomes a lovely, shared experience for the whole family.

Ingredients

For a small baking dish (about 20 by 20 centimeters, 3 to 4 portions):

Yeast dough:

• 150 g spelt flour
• 50 ml lukewarm cow's milk
• 10 g fresh yeast
• 20 g soft butter
• 1 tbsp fine raw cane sugar

Topping:

• 300 g fresh plums (washed and pitted)

Streusel:

• 50 g spelt flour
• 30 g cold butter
• 1 tbsp fine raw cane sugar
• 1 pinch Ceylon cinnamon

Preparation

1. Mix the lukewarm milk with the yeast and sugar in a bowl. Add the flour and soft butter, kneading everything into a smooth dough.
2. Cover the dough and let it rest in a warm place for about 45 minutes. It will expand significantly during this time.
3. Meanwhile, halve the washed plums and remove the pits. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (top and bottom heat).
4. For the streusel, quickly crumble the flour, cold butter, sugar, and cinnamon together in a small bowl using your fingers.
5. Press the risen yeast dough into a greased, small baking dish. Arrange the plum halves on top and sprinkle with the streusel.
6. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool completely before serving, and always check the temperature before offering it to your child.

Variations & Tips

• Fruity alternatives: Outside the plum season, this cake tastes fantastic with sliced apples or pears.
• Storage: The cake keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for about two days. It also freezes beautifully in small portions and can be thawed at room temperature.
• For the family: Adults can enhance their slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
• Texture adjustment: For younger eaters, you can cut the plums into smaller cubes before baking to make them easier to chew.

Allergy & Safety Information

This recipe contains gluten (spelt flour) and dairy (butter, cow's milk). Always introduce new ingredients one at a time and in small amounts to monitor for any reactions. Ensure that no fruit pits end up in the dough, as they pose a choking hazard. If you have any uncertainties about your child's diet or potential allergies, please consult your pediatrician.

Nutritional Information

Plums are a wonderful source of dietary fiber, which naturally supports healthy digestion. They also provide vitamin C and potassium for the child's immune system. The spelt flour offers long-lasting energy that little explorers need for their active days.