Plum cake remains one of those things that gets done in Christmas celebrations. Plum cake and Christmas season just cannot be imagined without one complementing the other.
Plum cake not only has a pleasing taste but also a long history that spans across several continents. Plum cake has a legend that exceeds the mere culinary delights that it serves.
What is the Origin of Plum Cake
Plum Cakes have their roots in the 17th century in England, where the term plum actually meant dried fruits like raisins and currants. The plum cake was originally baked in English kitchens from the 1660s, but the availability of exotic dried fruits brought about by trade with the Mediterranean and the Levant increased their popularity.
Plum Cakes were typically eaten during the indulgent part of the Christian season of Advent, when indulgence in rich foods had been avoided for weeks.
Plum Cakes: Intricate Flavors & Preservation
The uniqueness of a plum cake is in their very distinct taste combination that is both sweet, sour, and slightly bitter, often mixed with a splash of rum or brandy. Unlike normal cakes, plum cakes can be kept preserved from weeks to months because of the presence of fruits soaked in alcohol in them.
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Over a period of time, this develops a complex taste built from layers of caramelized fruits, spices and dough in each piece, which boasts a piece of history behind it.
European Influences & Regional Variations
The European bakers began experimenting with local fruits and spices, making regional variations of plum cakes that not only depended upon local fruiting seasons but also upon trade routes. Plum cakes, being a part of larger festive meals, were even complemented with cookies and other small cakes.
Why Plum Cake is a Christmas Tradition
Plum cake is a traditional part of Christmas because it symbolizes celebration and indulgence after the Advent season of fasting. Its rich mix of dried fruits, spices and often rum reflects centuries old customs from England, where the cake was originally baked to mark the festive period.
The luxurious ingredients and long shelf life made it ideal for holiday gatherings, allowing families to enjoy a treat that was both flavourful and festive. Over time, plum cake became associated with Christmas worldwide, representing warmth, tradition and the joy of sharing special food with loved ones.
Plum Cakes in Kerala, India
In the state of Kerala, plum cakes have found a prominent place in the celebrations of Christmas festivals among the Christian population. This recipe was brought to Kerala during the British colonization period.
The Kerala style plum cake combines the baking techniques brought by the British with local fruits and spices. Compared to the original recipe introduced by the British via European traders, rum preserved fruits were introduced to the recipe by local bakers.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational and cultural purposes only and does not constitute dietary or nutritional advice.
