Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavors of the Middle East with our delightful Spiced Fig Hazelnut Cake! This moist and flavorful cake combines the natural sweetness of dried figs with the earthy crunch of toasted hazelnuts, creating a dessert that's not only delicious but also a feast for the senses. Whether you're looking to impress guests at a gathering or simply treat yourself to something special, this cake is sure to be a showstopper. With just a bit of preparation and a dash of love, you can whip up this exquisite treat in no time. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried figs, chopped
- 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
- Toast hazelnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden. Allow to cool, then roughly chop.
- Chop dried figs into small, uniform pieces, removing any tough stems.
- In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer on medium speed, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredient mixture, alternating with milk, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Gently fold in chopped figs and toasted hazelnuts, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
- Transfer batter to the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or serve with a dollop of whipped cream before serving.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality dried figs and fresh hazelnuts. The richness of the ingredients will shine through in your cake.
- Toast Hazelnuts Properly: Make sure to toast the hazelnuts until they are fragrant and golden. This step enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your cake.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy texture.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when it's done.
- Serve with a Twist: For an extra touch, consider dusting the cooled cake with powdered sugar or serving it alongside a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top can also elevate the flavors!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 75mg
