Other fruits can be used in place of plums, depending on the season. Canned black cherries are a convenient substitute to keep in the store cupboard.

Ingredients: (Serves 4)

• 450 g/1 lb ripe red plums, quartered and stoned
• 200 ml/7 fl oz skimmed milk
• 60 ml/4 tablespoons skimmed milk powder
• 15 ml/1 tablespoon light muscovado sugar
• 5 ml/1 teaspoon vanilla essence
• 75 g/3 oz self-rising flour
• 2 egg whites
• Icing sugar, to sprinkle

Method:

Preheat the oven to 220ºC/425ºF/Gas 7. Lightly oil a wide, shallow oven proof dish and add the plums.

Pour the milk, milk powder, sugar, vanilla, flour and egg whites into a blender or food processor. Process until smooth.

Pour the batter over the plums. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until puffed and golden. Sprinkle with icing sugar and serve immediately.