Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped fresh figs
- 1/2 cup chopped crystallized ginger
Special Equipment Needed:
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Add the milk and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
6. Add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
7. Fold in the figs and crystallized ginger.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: 8-10
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 300
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: Whole wheat flour, almond flour, or oat flour
- Butter: Coconut oil, vegetable oil, or vegan butter
- Milk: Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Substitute 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots for the figs
- Substitute 1/2 cup chopped candied ginger for the crystallized ginger
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming with the sugar.
- Use fresh figs for the best flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely before serving.
Storage Instructions:
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Presentation Ideas:
- Dust with powdered sugar
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream
- Serve with a scoop of ice cream
Garnishes:
- Chopped walnuts or pecans
- Chopped fresh figs
- Chopped crystallized ginger
Pairings:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Fresh fruit
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Salad
- Grilled meats
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cake is too dry, try adding a bit more milk.
- If the cake is too dense, try adding a bit more baking powder.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning.
- Make sure to use a clean bowl and utensils when preparing the cake.
- Make sure to wash your hands before and after handling the cake.
Food History:
Figs have been cultivated for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Ginger has been used in cooking and medicine for centuries, originating in Southeast Asia.
Flavor Profiles:
This cake has a sweet and spicy flavor, with notes of fig, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
Serving Suggestions:
This cake is best served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A