Step 1

Preheat oven to 180°C / 360°F

Step 2

Wash, destone and halve or quarter the plums depending on size.

Step 3

In a mixing bowl, whisk to combine the flour and baking powder. Set aside.

Step 4

In a separate mixing bowl, combine the sugar and oil (and zest or vanilla extract if using), then add the sparkling water and gently combine.

Step 5

Now, add the dry mix (flour and baking powder) to the wet mix, and gently whisk to combine into a smooth, lump-free batter.

Step 6

Pour the batter into a lined oven tray. We use a large flat 12 x 15 inches (30 x 38 cm) sheet tray. For different tray or tin sizes, see the notes below.

Step 7

Place the plum halves on top of batter. If using, sprinkle over the flaked almonds.

Step 8

Cook for 25-30mins until cake comes out clean when tested, fruit is nicely cooked and the cake just starts to brown a little bit.

Step 9

With the cake fresh out of the oven and still hot, generously sprinkle on icing sugar, and some cinnamon if using. The icing sugar melts on the juicy hot fruit.

Step 10

The cake can be served warm immediately, or transferred to a wire rack to cool.