Get ready to indulge in a world of sweet and savory flavors with these 20 delicious fresh fig cakes that put a twist on traditional baking. Fresh figs are a staple of summer, and when paired with creative ingredients and techniques, they can elevate any cake recipe from ordinary to extraordinary.
From classic combinations like honey glazed and almond to unexpected pairings like orange blossom yogurt and dark chocolate, these recipes showcase the versatility of fresh figs in sweet treats. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party or a simple yet impressive dessert for a weekday treat, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of fresh fig cakes and explore 20 unique recipes that will inspire your baking and satisfy your taste buds.
Honey Glazed Fresh Fig and Almond Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for a special occasion or a sweet treat any time of the year. The combination of fresh figs, crunchy almonds, and a hint of honey creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, milk, and honey until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped figs and sliced almonds.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Fresh Fig and Ricotta Upside-Down Cake
Savor the sweetness of fresh figs and creamy ricotta in this moist and flavorful cake, topped with a caramelized fig and brown sugar crust. Perfect for a warm weather dessert or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh figs, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add milk, eggs, ricotta cheese, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
3. Arrange fig slices in the prepared pan, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Pour batter over the figs and drizzle with melted butter and brown sugar.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before flipping onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Fresh Fig and Walnut Loaf Cake
This Spiced Fresh Fig and Walnut Loaf Cake is a sweet and savory treat perfect for any time of year. The combination of fresh figs, toasted walnuts, and warm spices will transport you to a cozy autumn evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh figs, chopped
– 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Add chopped figs and walnuts; mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Fresh Fig and Orange Blossom Yogurt Cake
Elevate your baking game with this sweet and tangy cake, bursting with the flavors of fresh figs and orange blossom water. This moist and airy delight is perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup orange blossom water
– 1 cup fresh figs, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add yogurt, orange blossom water, and chopped figs to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Smooth tops.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Brown Butter Fresh Fig Pound Cake
This rich and moist pound cake is elevated by the deep, nutty flavor of brown butter and the sweet-tartness of fresh figs. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) fresh figs, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until browned and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Pour in browned butter and mix until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped figs. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool on a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fresh Fig and Dark Chocolate Bundt Cake
This moist and decadent bundt cake combines the sweetness of fresh figs with the richness of dark chocolate, perfect for a special occasion or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups (250g) fresh figs, chopped
– 1 cup (120g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup (30g) plain Greek yogurt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup bundt pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add chopped figs, dark chocolate chips, and Greek yogurt. Mix until combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared bundt pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Lemon Zest Fresh Fig Tea Cake
Lemon Zest Fresh Fig Tea Cake: A sweet and tangy tea cake infused with the warmth of fresh figs and the brightness of lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons loose-leaf black tea leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, milk, eggs, and lemon zest.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped figs and tea leaves.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fresh Fig and Cardamom Coffee Cake
This sweet and savory coffee cake combines the natural sweetness of fresh figs with the warm, aromatic flavor of cardamom. Perfect for a brunch or breakfast gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tsp ground cardamom
– 1 cup fresh figs, chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, sugar, egg, yogurt, and cardamom; mix until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped figs.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Roasted Fresh Fig Snack Cake
Transform fresh figs into a sweet and savory snack cake, infused with the warmth of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup roasted fresh figs, chopped
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 6-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Fold in chopped figs and maple syrup.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fresh Fig and Hazelnut Flourless Cake
Experience the sweetness of fresh figs and the nutty flavor of hazelnuts in this rich and decadent flourless cake. Perfect for a special occasion or as a treat for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 ripe fresh figs, chopped
– 1/4 cup (30g) hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
– 1/4 cup (60ml) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and sugar until frothy.
3. Fold in chopped figs, hazelnuts, and melted butter.
4. Pour mixture into prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Bean Fresh Fig Layer Cake
This moist and flavorful cake celebrates the sweetness of fresh figs and the elegance of vanilla bean. A perfect dessert for any occasion, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup fresh figs, chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
5. Fold in chopped figs.
6. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before assembling and dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fresh Fig and Goat Cheese Olive Oil Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for a warm weather dessert or brunch. The sweetness of the fresh figs pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the goat cheese, all held together by the richness of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh figs
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, olive oil, and goat cheese until smooth.
4. Add the chopped figs to the wet ingredients and stir to combine.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cinnamon Swirl Fresh Fig Sheet Cake
Experience the sweet combination of fresh figs, warm cinnamon, and tender cake in this delightful sheet cake recipe. Perfect for a brunch or afternoon treat, this moist and flavorful dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup fresh fig jam or preserves
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Fold in fig jam, chopped fresh figs, and cinnamon.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fresh Fig and Pistachio Polenta Cake
Fresh Fig and Pistachio Polenta Cake Recipe
Experience the sweetness of fresh figs and crunch of pistachios in this unique polenta cake recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh figs, chopped
– 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Gradually whisk in polenta and reduce heat to medium. Cook, stirring constantly, for 5 minutes or until mixture thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
4. Fold in chopped figs and pistachios.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rosemary Infused Fresh Fig Loaf Cake
This moist and flavorful loaf cake combines the sweetness of fresh figs with the earthy aroma of rosemary, perfect for a warm-weather dessert or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh figs (about 3-4 figs)
– 2 sprigs of rosemary, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, chopped figs, and rosemary. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fresh Fig and Coconut Milk Sponge Cake
This moist and flavorful sponge cake combines the natural sweetness of fresh figs with the creamy richness of coconut milk, creating a unique and delicious dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (120ml) coconut milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped fresh figs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, eggs, coconut milk, salt, baking powder, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Fold in chopped figs.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Fresh Fig Spice Cake
This moist fig spice cake is elevated by a rich balsamic glaze, perfect for a warm-weather dessert or snack. The combination of sweet figs, warm spices, and tangy balsamic creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (for glaze)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until light. Beat in eggs.
4. Add chopped figs and whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool before glazing with balsamic vinegar.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fresh Fig and Mascarpone Cream Cake
This moist and decadent cake combines the sweetness of fresh figs with the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese, perfect for a special occasion or a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
– Fresh figs, sliced (about 1 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Beat just until combined.
5. Stir in mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Arrange sliced figs on top of cake.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gingerbread Fresh Fig Upside-Down Cake
This moist gingerbread cake is infused with the warmth of ginger, the sweetness of caramelized figs, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh figs, sliced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Add flour mixture to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Arrange fig slices on the prepared pan bottom. Pour batter over figs.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Fresh Fig and Earl Grey Tea Infused Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the sweetness of fresh figs and the subtle citrus notes of Earl Grey tea, creating a unique and delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh figs, chopped
– 2 Earl Grey tea bags (strong brewed tea)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped figs and brewed Earl Grey tea.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a sweet treat with these 20 delicious fresh fig cakes, each with a unique twist! From classic combinations like honey glazed and almond cake to creative pairings like ricotta upside-down cake and orange blossom yogurt cake, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re looking for a moist pound cake or a light and fluffy sponge, these recipes will satisfy your sweet tooth. Explore the world of fresh fig cakes with this collection of innovative and mouthwatering desserts!