Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 -2 tablespoon sugar
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 24 halves pitted Italian plums (aka prune or purple, use your favorite plum-you may need less)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or more)
  • vanilla ice cream (optional)

Method

  • Arrange a rack in the lower third of the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  • In an electric mixer, cream the 3/4 cup sugar and butter. Add the flour, baking powder, eggs, and salt and beat to mix well. Place in a 9- inch ungreased springform pan. Cover the top with the plums, skin side down. Mix the cinnamon with the remaining 1 or 2 tablespoons of sugar and sprinkle over the top.
  • Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, until the center tests done with a toothpick. Remove and cool to room temperature or serve warm. Serve plain or with vanilla ice cream.
  • Help Note: The torte may be refrigerated or frozen for several months, well wrapped. To serve, return to room temperature and reheat at 300°F until warm.