Fig Almond Cake

This Fig Almond Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of figs with the nutty richness of almonds. Soft, moist, and lightly spiced, it is perfect for afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, or as a unique treat to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake stands out because of its rustic yet elegant flavor profile. The figs provide natural sweetness and a tender texture, while ground almonds give the cake richness and moisture. It is naturally gluten-free when made with almond flour, making it a versatile dessert option. Whether served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with whipped cream, this cake offers a sophisticated yet comforting experience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Fresh or dried figs

• Almond flour or finely ground almonds

• Eggs

• Sugar (granulated or brown sugar)

• Butter or olive oil

• Baking powder

• Vanilla extract

• Lemon zest (optional, for brightness)

• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a round cake pan with parchment paper.

2. If using dried figs, soak them in warm water for about 15 minutes to soften, then chop finely. Fresh figs should be cleaned, dried, and chopped.

3. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and lemon zest if using.

5. Gently fold in the almond flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

6. Mix in the chopped figs, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the batter.

7. Pour the mixture into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.

8. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream if desired.

Servings and timing

This Fig Almond Cake serves 8–10 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 35–40 minutes
Cooling time: 15 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or cardamom for a spiced version.

• Replace half of the figs with chopped dates or prunes for a different flavor balance.

• Drizzle with honey or maple syrup before serving for added sweetness.

• Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pistachios for extra crunch.

• Use orange zest instead of lemon zest for a warmer citrus note.

storage/reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this cake with fresh figs instead of dried figs?

Yes, fresh figs can be used. Ensure they are ripe but firm and chop them before adding to the batter.

Is this cake gluten-free?

Yes, when made with almond flour, this cake is naturally gluten-free.

Can I substitute the butter with oil?

Yes, olive oil or a neutral vegetable oil works well and adds extra moisture.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

You may reduce the sugar slightly, especially if using very sweet figs, though it may alter the cake’s texture.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is ready.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be baked a day in advance. Its flavor deepens after resting overnight.

What can I serve with fig almond cake?

It pairs well with whipped cream, mascarpone, or a drizzle of honey.

Can I add spices to the recipe?

Yes, cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom add warmth and enhance the flavor.

Will the cake rise much?

Since almond flour is dense, the cake will rise slightly but remain more compact and moist.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, replace butter with oil or dairy-free margarine to make it dairy-free.

Conclusion

The Fig Almond Cake is a simple yet elegant dessert that balances sweetness, nuttiness, and natural flavors beautifully. Its moist texture and versatile recipe make it a great choice for gatherings, festive occasions, or an indulgent treat with tea or coffee. With endless variations and easy preparation, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking collection.

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