PLUM UPSIDE-DOWN CAKE

The delicate flavor of plums is a pleasing change of pace in this cake that bakes in a skillet.

—Bobbie Talbott, Veneta, OR


Prep: 15 min. • Bake: 40 min. • Makes:10 servings

1/3 cup butter

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

3/4 to 2 pounds medium plums, pitted and halved

2 large eggs

2/3 cup sugar

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/3 cup hot water

1/2 teaspoon lemon extract

Whipped cream, optional

1. Melt butter in a 10-in. cast-iron or ovenproof skillet. Sprinkle brown sugar over butter. Arrange plum halves, cut side down, in a single layer over sugar; set aside.

2. In a large bowl, beat eggs until thick and lemon-colored; gradually beat in sugar. Combine the flour, baking powder and salt; add to egg mixture and mix well. Blend water and lemon extract; beat into batter. Pour over plums.

3. Bake at 350° for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Immediately invert onto a serving plate. Serve warm, with whipped cream if desired.

Per 1 piece: 245 cal., 7g fat (4g sat. fat), 53mg chol., 173mg sod., 43g carb. (32g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g pro.