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More Than A Recipe: Greta’s Omi’s Pflaumenkuchen (German Plum Cake)

Greta Garland
November 10th, 2025

My grandmother taught me many things that have made me feel more connected to my German heritage while growing up. Most importantly, she shared with me her knowledge of baking. My grandmother brought joy to all of our family with her delicious german recipes, and ever since I was 7 years old, I have tried my best to emulate her in the kitchen.

I have always loved the process of combining ingredients and seeing what kind of magic happens in the oven. One of my absolute favorite recipes is her Pflaumenkuchen (plum cake). Baking fresh plums into a cake brings out their sweet yet tart flavor, which seeps beautifully into the soft cake base, especially with a touch of cinnamon.

Kaffee mit Kuchen: A German Tradition

Kaffee mit kuchen, or cake with coffee, is extremely popular in Germany. So much so, that people in Germany often eat cake with a coffee for lunch rather than a savory meal. As someone with a major sweet tooth, I have always loved this aspect of German culture.

Making German Plum Cake: Notes and Memories

Pflaumenkuchen is traditionally made with Italian plums which are smaller and can range from a deep red to purplish black in color. I personally have made this cake with a variety of different plums and think that it comes out delicious every time. It pairs perfectly with a cappuccino or a simple cup of coffee.

But beyond its flavor, what makes this dish so meaningful to me is what it represents. My grandma (my Omi) taught me that cooking and baking for others is a way to show love and care. That’s exactly what this dish has always represented to me. It is sweet, comforting, and wonderful to share with people you love.

I have countless fond memories of spending time in my Omi’s kitchen, talking and catching up over a piece of plum cake. I also remember learning how to bake at her side—she taught me not to be afraid to use my hands and to embrace the messiness of making something from scratch.

Here’s Everything you need to know about how to make Omi’s German Plum Cake Recipe

Ingredients:

3 cups plums, pitted and thinly sliced
1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups sugar
2 eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon (for sprinkling)
Additional granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter a baking dish.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.
Gently fold in the flour and baking powder until just combined—don’t overmix.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
Arrange the sliced plums in a circular pattern, gently pressing them into the batter.
Sprinkle the top with a little granulated sugar and a light dusting of cinnamon.
Bake for about 1 hour, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool slightly before serving—preferably with a cup of coffee.

More Than Just a German Cake

Pflaumenkuchen is one of my favorite desserts, especially in late summer and early fall. I’m so grateful for the memories it brings back every time I bake it. This recipe reminds me of my deep connection with Omi, the love we shared through baking, and the comfort of our time together in the kitchen.

It also reminds me that food can be so much more than just nutrients, it’s a way of remembering, connecting, and expressing love and care across generations.