This recipe isn't just for fig lovers; it's a journey back in time, a taste of simpler baking days. It's a recipe designed to be shared, savored, and remembered. This old-fashioned fig cake is moist, deeply flavorful, and incredibly satisfying – perfect for teatime, a special occasion, or simply a comforting treat. We'll explore the nuances of this classic recipe, addressing common questions and providing tips for the perfect bake.
What Makes This Fig Cake "Old-Fashioned"?
The "old-fashioned" designation in this recipe refers to a few key elements:
- Simple Ingredients: We're focusing on quality ingredients and straightforward techniques. No fancy extracts or complicated procedures here.
- Rich Flavor Profile: The cake relies on the natural sweetness and depth of the figs, complemented by warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Moist Texture: The result is a delightfully moist and dense cake, a characteristic of many traditional recipes. The figs themselves contribute significantly to this lovely texture.
- No Frosting (Optional): While a dusting of powdered sugar is lovely, the cake itself is rich enough to stand alone without any elaborate frosting.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 ½ cups dried figs, chopped (about 12 ounces)
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions for Baking Your Fig Cake:
- Prepare the Figs: Place the chopped figs in a heatproof bowl and pour the boiling water over them. Let them soak for at least 15 minutes, or until softened. This step is crucial for a moist cake.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is best done with an electric mixer.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Figs: Drain the figs, reserving the soaking liquid. Gently fold the softened figs into the batter. You can also add a few tablespoons of the reserved fig liquid for extra moisture if needed, but it's not necessary.
- Bake: Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9x13 inch baking pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before dusting with powdered sugar (optional) and slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh figs in this recipe?
While this recipe is designed for dried figs, you can experiment with fresh figs. You'll likely need to adjust the amount – use about twice the weight of fresh figs as you would dried, and you may need to add a little extra flour to compensate for the extra moisture. Reduce the sugar slightly, too, as fresh figs are sweeter.
How can I store leftover fig cake?
Store leftover fig cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze this fig cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What kind of figs are best for this recipe?
California black mission figs are a popular choice for their rich flavor and texture, but any variety of dried fig will work well.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Be sure to use a blend specifically designed for baking. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly depending on the brand you use.
This old-fashioned fig cake recipe is a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, delicious baking. The combination of moist texture, warm spices, and the rich sweetness of figs creates a truly unforgettable treat. Enjoy!
