Fig Cake with Almond and Honey

This fig cake is floral and fruity, scented with cinnamon and sweetened with honey. This cake is moistened with extra virgin olive oil, Greek yogurt and fresh figs.

This figcake was inspired by merienda or the Spanish afternoon snack that bridges between meals. Cafes and restaurants change their menus in the afternoons from lunch to coffee, sweet pastries, and savory snacks such as tuna or beef enpanadillas.

Cafes served simple cakes baked into tart pans instead of layer cakes that were oversized and complicated. The cakes' flavors were changed daily or seasonally, and they were the perfect size for an afternoon snack.

The fig cake I bake in a 9-inch round pan or fluted tart pan is inspired by the afternoon treats that I used to enjoy in Spain with a cup carajillo. The cake is made from a combination of almond flour, all-purpose flour and gluten-free flour. Honey is used to sweeten the cake, which has a hint of cinnamon. Before baking I add figs quartered into the batter, and sprinkle flaked almonds on top.

Serve the fig cake with honey and warm yogurt, sliced figs or with coffee or tea.

Honey, Almond and Fig Cake Ingredients

The fig cake is sweetened with honey and has a floral, fruity taste. The cake is moistened with a mixture of Greek yogurt and extra virgin olive oils, while the almond flour gives it structure and a fluffy texture. Fresh figs are the perfect topping.

• Almond Flour:Almond powder has a mild flavor that is sweet and nutty. This flour can produce cakes that are fluffier and more tender.
• All purpose flour:A little all-purpose helps to add structure and bind the batter. For a gluten free cake, you can substitute it with gluten-free 1 to 1 flour.
• Cinnamon :Adds warmth to the almonds, figs and honey without taking away the focus.
• Baking Soda:Reacts to the honey and yogurt in order to leaven and make the cake fluffy.
• Salt:Increases other flavors of the tart.
• Greek yogurt Keeps the cake moist, without needing as much oil. Use Greek yogurt in full-fat or low-fat.
• Extra virgin Olive Oil:Because the oil is liquid at room temperatures, it makes baked goods more tender than butter. It also gives the cake a wonderful fruity, peppery taste. For baking, a high-quality oil is necessary. I like our Private Reserve Greek Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
• Honey:I recommend extra light or light-amber honey for plenty of flavor, without overwhelming the almonds and figs. I suggest our Alfa Honey from Crete which has a taste of fresh thyme.
• Eggs Provide structure and bind batter together.
• Figs:Have an almond and honey-like flavor.
• Almonds :Add some crunch on top of your cake.
• Granulated Sugar (Optional): A sprinkle of sugar on the top of the cake caramelizes the quartered almonds and sliced figs.

How To Make This Fig Almond Honey Cake

It takes only 15 minutes to make the fig cake. You can use a 9-inch cake pan if you don't own a fluted pan.

• Prepare yourself. Place a rack at the center of your oven. Pre-heat the oven to 350degF. You can use a 9" fluted tart pan or a 9" round cake pan. Lightly grease the pan and line it with parchment paper.
• Mix the dry ingredients. In medium mixing bowl, whisk 1 cup almond, 1/2 cup all purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 tablespoon baking soda. The almond flour can be broken up with a whisk.
• Combine all the ingredients. In another mixing bowl, combine 2 large eggs with 1/2 cup honey and 1/3 cup of each Greek yogurt or olive oil.
• Prepare the batter. Add flour to yogurt and fold using a silicone spatula.
• Add toppings. Scrape batter into prepared pan. Smooth the top. Spread 8 quartered figs on top and lightly press them into the batter. Sprinkle 1/4 cup sliced almonds, and optionally 1 tablespoon granulated agave sugar, over the top.
• Bake. Place the tart pan onto a baking tray and bake it for 35-40 minutes or until the wooden skewer that is inserted in the middle of the cake comes clean. The top will be golden brown, and the sides of the cake should begin to pull away slightly from the pan's edge.
• Cool. Let the cake cool in the pan, on a wire rack. If your tart pan is false-bottomed, gently push the bottom to separate the cake and the edge of pan. Then, carefully slide the cake on a plate. If you are using a cake pan to bake the cake, use a butter knife to run along the sides of the cake and then carefully transfer it onto a plate.
• Serve. After the cake cools, cut it into slices and serve them at room temperature, with extra figs and Greek yogurt. Drizzle honey on top.

How To Pick The Perfect Figs For Baking

Fresh figs that are perfectly ripe have a honey-sweet and nutty taste. They were available from late summer until November and used to represent the harvest of ancient Greece. You can buy them as early as May.

Use black or green figs in baking.

• Black Figs - My favourite is Black Mission. These are the sweetest and have the strongest fig taste.
• Calimyrna is my favorite green fig. Honey and butterscotch flavors make them the sweetest.

Overripe figs are not suitable for this recipe (or any other fig recipe that involves baking the fruit). They will degrade too quickly when exposed to heat. You can choose ripe, or slightly underripe, figs. Ripe figs are soft, but not mushy. They may also have wrinkles or cracks on the skin.

Substitutions and Variations

The fig season lasts only a few months of the year. Fresh figs spoil so quickly, even if you find them. If you don't have access to perfectly ripe fruit, here are some substitutions and variations that can be used for this fig-cake recipe.

• This fig cake can be made with dried figs in place of fresh figs. To replace the fresh figs, substitute 1 cup (7 ounces) coarsely chopped stemmed dried figs. Instead of adding them to the top, stir them into the batter.
• This cake base can be used for other fruits, including apricots and Fuyu Persimmons. It also works well with apples or pears.
• Substitute the all-purpose with the preferred gluten-free flour.
• Try toasting almond flour to get a more nutty, toasty taste, as in our carrot cake recipe. Toasted almond flour can be toasted on a baking tray in a 350degF over for 7 to 9 mins, or until golden. To toast the almond flour evenly, stir and redistribute it halfway through.

How To Store Fig Cake

Store the fig cake in an airtight container at room temperature or tightly covered for up to 3 days. If you store it in the fridge, it will last for a few days longer.

You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Double wrap the cake in foil or plastic wrap. The cake can be defrosted in the fridge overnight, or on the counter, covered.

Serve this Fig Cake with

Serve a piece of figcake with Greek yogurt, honey and a generous amount of figs. You can also serve a few extra slices of figs on the side. This cake is great in the afternoon, with a warm cup of tea or coffee.

This cake would be a great sweet treat for breakfast or brunch, paired with a vegetable omelette and a fresh fennel-orange salad.

All Mediterranean Recipes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a typical Mediterranean breakfast like?

A Mediterranean breakfast might include a mix of protein, healthy oils, and carbohydrates. There are many options for eggs, including olive oil-cooked eggs with roasted vegetables or whole-grain bread, Greek yogurt or cheese with whole grain toast, quinoa porridge, with fresh fruits and nuts, and quinoa porridge. Avocado toast with tomatoes is a delicious option for breakfast. You can start your day with Mediterranean-inspired proteins like wild-caught fish, grassfed meat, organic eggs, and nuts. Use whole grains, such as quinoa and other whole grains, to reduce sugar. Choose fresh fruits for your breakfast, as well as extra virgin olive, coconut, and avocado oil.

Is the Mediterranean diet too expensive?

The Mediterranean diet is usually affordable, and includes easily accessible and affordable ingredients. Local grocery stores and farmers' markets have many staple foods. Shopping for organic products, premium proteins or specialty items like extra virgin olive oil, can prove more costly. You need to plan your meals according to your budget. Saving money is possible by using leftovers from past meals, and bulk-freezing food such as fish or grains.

Is milk OK on the Mediterranean diet?

Yes, milk can be consumed on the Mediterranean diet. The Mediterranean diet is rich in dairy products, such as low-fat yogurts and cheese. These products provide calcium and other key nutrients. Also, milk is nutritious and should be included in moderation in your daily drink routine. You can also make your own smoothies or oatmeal with it. For sustainable farming practices to be promoted when buying milk, it is best to use organic varieties. You can add milk to breakfast recipes such as avocado toast and smoothie bowls to get the essential vitamins and minerals you need for a healthy start.

What should I be eating in a Mediterranean day?

A Mediterranean diet focuses on healthy fats and protein and lots of fresh fruit, vegetables, whole grains. A healthy Mediterranean diet should include about seven to 10 servings of fruits and vegetables daily and two to four 3-ounce servings of lean protein such as fish or chicken. Healthy fats like olive oil and nuts are also encouraged in moderate amounts. For a balanced diet, you should consume three to four servings of whole grain, such as quinoa barley, oats or barley each day.

It is also important to limit the intake of unhealthy foods such as added sugar, unhealthy fats and white bread. Reduced-fat dairy products should be avoided if possible. It is important to limit fish consumption to no more than three times per semaine due to possible mercury contamination.

You can get the most out of your Mediterranean diet by planning meals. Make sure to pay attention to what ingredients are included in the dishes you choose.

The Mediterranean diet offers a variety of delicious and nutritious food options that can make it enjoyable. For the best health, choose high-quality proteins like wild-caught fish and grass-fed meats, as well as organic eggs, to ensure you are eating healthy meals. Additionally, incorporate heart-healthy fats from nuts, olives, avocados, extra virgin olive oil, and coconut oil. Include plenty of fresh and/or freeze fruits and vegetables, whole grains like quinoa and barley in your meals, as well as whole grains such oats, quinoa and barley. Also, avoid unhealthy fats and added sugar as well as processed foods, starches red meat, and processed milk products.

Can the Mediterranean Food Diet be gluten free?

Yes, you can adapt the Mediterranean Diet to be gluten-free. You don't have to eat whole grains of carbohydrates like wheat or barley. Gluten-free grains such quinoa and millet can be added to your meals. Additional gluten-free options include fruits like melon, pears and fresh vegetables as well as legumes, nuts, seeds and nuts. Individuals who are allergic to dairy and milk may find it beneficial to choose lactose-free options for protein. You might also consider making porridge as an alternative to oats, eating baked salmon with potatoes, or bean soup for lunch, and roasting vegetables with herbs as dinner.

Statistics

• Choose fat-free or 1% milk, yogurt, and cottage cheese. (my.clevelandclinic.org)
• The research suggested that the diet reduced the risk of cardiovascular issues, including stroke, heart attack, and death, by about 30 percent compared with the control group. (medicalnewstoday.com)
• 1g sugar Benefits Rich in heart-healthy polyunsaturated fats, these nuts may also favourably impact your gut microbiome (and thus improve digestive health) and lower LDL cholesterol, according to a small study that included 18 healthy adults. (everydayhealth.com)
• Aim to get 20 to 35 percent of your total daily caloric intake from fat, and for saturated fats to represent less than 10 percent of your total caloric intake, advises the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (everydayhealth.com)

External Links

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• Health Benefits of the Mediterranean Diet: Metabolic and Molecular Mechanisms - PubMed


• PubMed: Cardiovascular Health and the Mediterranean Diet - PubMed

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• (PDF). The Association Between Dietary Patterns AND Insulin Resistance: Systematic Review


• (PDF). Citrus is a part of the Mediterranean Diet

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• The Mediterranean Diet: A transition from an environment-driven food culture to an emerging medical prescription - PMC


• Definition of the Mediterranean Diet: Literature Review - PMC

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• Mediterranean Diet

How To

What Does the Mediterranean Diet Do to Support Brain Health and Reduce Cognitive Decline?

Mediterranean eating is a way to eat a lot of fruits, vegetables and legumes. It also includes healthy fats and a low intake of red meat and added sugar. It has been linked to many health benefits - including better brain health. The Mediterranean Diet is known to slow down the rate of cognitive decline and reduce the risk for dementia, according to research. It may improve mood and offer protection against oxidative stress as well.

Many aspects of the Mediterranean diet are good for brain health and can help to prevent cognitive decline. The most significant benefit comes from consuming large amounts of antioxidant-rich plant foods such as fruits and vegetables, which provide essential vitamins and minerals for healthy neurological functioning. Monounsaturated fats, such as olive oils, are important for maintaining healthy omega-3 levels. This is critical for brain health. Limiting processed carbohydrates can also help improve mental clarity. It stabilizes blood glucose levels throughout the day, and reduces inflammation related to chronic diseases like Alzheimer's and stroke.

A Mediterranean-style diet that includes fresh fruits, vegetables, fish and poultry, whole grains, plenty of olive oil, good fats and occasional red wine will help you maintain adequate nutrition for cognitive decline. Regular physical activity at a moderate intensity will help increase serotonin production which in turn supports mental well-being. These tips combined can help increase your chances of maintaining a good mental and physical health throughout life.

Resources:

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