German Plum Sheet Cake (Zwetschgendatschi)

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make German Plum Sheet Cake (Zwetschgendatschi).

1. Step 1

   Begin by mixing flour and baking powder in a spacious bowl.

2. Step 2

   Incorporate 1 cup of sugar, vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt, stirring until well combined.

3. Step 3

   Introduce chunks of butter and eggs into the mixture, then knead until a smooth dough forms.

4. Step 4

   Shape the dough into a ball, gently flatten it, cover it, and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or overnight for best results.

5. Step 5

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by greasing it with butter.

6. Step 6

   Take your halved plums and slice them in half again, being careful not to cut all the way through so they can fan out beautifully.

7. Step 7

   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry dough and line the bottom and sides of your prepared baking sheet with it.

8. Step 8

   In a small bowl, blend together 2 tablespoons of sugar and ground cinnamon.

9. Step 9

   Arrange the plums side by side on the pastry, overlapping smaller ones if needed.

10. Step 10

    Dot the plums with 2 tablespoons of butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over them, adding sliced almonds if desired.

11. Step 11

    Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the pastry crust turns a lovely golden brown.

12. Step 12

    Once baked, allow the cake to cool before cutting it into squares.

13. Step 13

    Enjoy it warm or at room temperature, savoring the delightful blend of flavors and textures.