Are you craving a dessert that's both elegant and surprisingly simple to make? Look no further than this fig upside-down cake! This recipe transforms fresh, juicy figs into a stunning centerpiece for a moist and flavorful cake. Perfect for a casual weeknight treat or a sophisticated dinner party, this upside-down cake is sure to impress. It's one of those easy recipes that delivers maximum deliciousness with minimal effort, making it a favorite for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels.
Ingredients:
For the Fig Topping:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 8-10 fresh figs, quartered
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
Get started with the Fig Topping:
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch cast iron skillet or baking pan. This ensures easy removal later.
-
In the prepared skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined and bubbly.
-
Arrange the fig quarters in a single layer over the brown sugar mixture, cut-side down.
Now, let's make the Cake Batter:
-
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
-
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is best achieved with an electric mixer, but it's doable by hand with some elbow grease!
-
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
-
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – don't overmix!
Bake and Enjoy:
-
Carefully pour the batter over the figs in the skillet.
-
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
-
Let the cake cool in the skillet for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate. The warm caramel sauce from the figs will create a beautiful glaze.
-
Serve warm or at room temperature. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement!
Tips for Success:
- Fresh Figs are Best: Use ripe, but not overripe, figs for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Adjust Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cake and adjust the baking time as needed. Start checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark.
Variations:
- Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts would be a delicious addition to the batter.
- Use Different Fruit: This recipe can be adapted using other fruits like peaches, pears, or apples.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices like cardamom or allspice.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your servings and the specific ingredients used. For a general estimate, expect each serving to contain around 350-400 calories, moderate amounts of fat and sugar, and a decent source of fiber from the figs. It's best to use a nutrition calculator for a precise breakdown.
This fig upside-down cake is a perfect example of a quick dinner idea that satisfies your sweet tooth without sacrificing deliciousness or ease of preparation. It’s a healthy meals option when made with fresh ingredients, showcasing how simple homemade cooking can be. Enjoy!