This contest-winning German plum cake is as elegant as it is delicious, and it's incredibly easy to make. It's also a great way to enjoy plums when they're in season, abundant and juicy.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup 2% milk
• 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
• 2 cups sliced fresh plums (about 4 medium)
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• confectioners' sugar, optional

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°. In a small bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, 5-7 minutes. Beat in eggs. Combine flour and baking powder; add to the creamed mixture alternately with milk, beating well after each addition. Add lemon zest. Pour into a greased 10-in. springform pan. Arrange plums on top; gently press into batter. Sprinkle the top with brown sugar and cinnamon.
2. Place pan on a baking sheet. Bake until top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 40-50 minutes. Cool 10 minutes. Run a knife around edge of pan; remove rim. Cool on a wire rack. If desired, dust with confectioners' sugar just before serving.