Indulge in the delightful flavors of figs, almonds, and honey with this exquisite fig cake recipe.
Bursting with natural sweetness and nutty undertones, this cake is a perfect treat for any occasion.
Whether served as a dessert or enjoyed with a cup of tea, this moist and flavorful cake is sure to impress your taste buds.
Let’s dive into how to make this delectable fig cake with almond and honey!
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried figs, stemmed and chopped
- 1 cup hot water
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, for topping
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Spatula
Instructions
Prepare Figs:
Place the chopped dried figs in a bowl and pour hot water over them. Let them soak for 15-20 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line it with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Flavorings:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the honey and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Fold in Figs:
Gently fold the soaked figs into the batter until evenly distributed.
Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the sliced almonds over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve:
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Facts
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of cake)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 190mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 6g
Fig cake with almond and honey offers not only a delightful taste but also several health benefits, thanks to its wholesome ingredients. Here are some of the health benefits associated with this delectable dessert:
Figs:
Figs are rich in dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health by preventing constipation and supporting regular bowel movements.
They also contain prebiotics, which nourish the beneficial bacteria in the gut and contribute to a healthy gut microbiome.
Additionally, figs are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which are essential for bone health and muscle function.
Almonds:
Almonds are nutrient-dense nuts packed with healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
They are particularly rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Almonds also contain monounsaturated fats, which have been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease.
Furthermore, the fiber and protein content of almonds can help promote satiety and support weight management.
Honey:
Honey is a natural sweetener that offers various health benefits.
It contains antioxidants and antibacterial properties that may help boost the immune system and fight inflammation.
Honey also has a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugar, meaning it may have a less pronounced effect on blood sugar levels when consumed in moderation.
Additionally, honey has been used in traditional medicine for its soothing effects on sore throats and coughs.
Whole Wheat Flour:
Many recipes for fig cake with almond and honey use whole wheat flour instead of refined flour.
Whole wheat flour retains the nutrient-rich bran and germ layers of the wheat kernel, providing more fiber, vitamins, and minerals than refined flour.
This can contribute to better digestive health, improved blood sugar control, and increased satiety.
Antioxidants:
Both figs and almonds are rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in the body.
Oxidative stress has been linked to chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.
By consuming foods high in antioxidants, such as figs and almonds, you can support overall health and reduce the risk of chronic illness.
Overall, fig cake with almond and honey offers a delicious way to incorporate nutrient-rich ingredients into your diet.
Enjoying this dessert in moderation can provide a range of health benefits, including improved digestive health, heart health, immune function, and antioxidant protection.
Plus, its natural sweetness and satisfying texture make it a delightful treat for any occasion.
FAQ’s
Can I use fresh figs instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh figs if they are in season. Simply chop them and use them in place of the dried figs.
Can I substitute almond flour with regular flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of almond flour if you prefer. However, almond flour adds a nutty flavor and moist texture to the cake.
Can I use a different type of nut for topping?
Absolutely! Feel free to use chopped walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts instead of sliced almonds for a different flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I serve this cake with whipped cream or ice cream?
Yes, this fig cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.