Description
This Vintage Fig Cake is a timeless dessert with rich, caramelized flavors and a moist, tender crumb. Made with ripe figs, warm spices, and a touch of honey, this cake brings old-fashioned charm to your table. Perfectly paired with a cream cheese frosting or a simple dusting of powdered sugar, this nostalgic cake is ideal for tea time, holidays, or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Cake:
- 1 cup fresh figs, chopped (or 1/2 cup dried figs, rehydrated)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup honey or molasses
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Frosting (Optional):
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon honey
For Garnish:
- Fresh fig slices
- Chopped nuts
- Drizzle of honey
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Prepare the Figs – If using dried figs, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then chop. If using fresh figs, remove stems and chop into small pieces.
- Mix Dry Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cream Butter & Sugar – In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla, honey, and buttermilk.
- Combine Wet & Dry – Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Fold in chopped figs and nuts if using.
- Bake – Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
- Make the Frosting (Optional) – Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and honey, mixing until fluffy.
- Assemble & Serve – Frost the cooled cake or simply dust with powdered sugar. Garnish with fresh figs, nuts, and a drizzle of honey.
Notes
- For a more rustic touch, serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream instead of frosting.
- Dried figs add a more intense sweetness, while fresh figs create a lighter texture.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
