3 Bakes to Celebrate the Fruity Goodness of Figs

If you're a fan of figs, you're in for a treat! In this article, we will explore three delectable bakes that celebrate the fruity goodness of figs. From tarts to bread, these recipes will let the unique flavor of figs shine through, whether you're using fresh figs or fig jam. So, let's get baking!

Fig and almond tart

The first recipe on our list is the classic fig and almond tart. This is a gorgeous dish that showcases the natural sweetness of figs, complemented by the richness of almonds.

*Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pie crust
• 1 cup of sliced almonds
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup of melted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of almond extract
• 6 large fresh figs, quartered

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread your pie crust into a tart pan and set it aside.
3. In a bowl, mix together the almonds, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and almond extract.
4. Pour this mixture into the prepared crust.
5. Arrange the quartered figs on top of the tart.
6. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown.

The result is a scrumptious tart that's as beautiful as it is tasty. The crunchy texture of the almonds offers a great contrast to the softness of the figs, and the almond extract adds an extra depth of flavor.

Fig and cream cheese scones

Next up, we have fig and cream cheese scones. These scones are soft, fluffy, and filled with sweet figs and creamy cheese. They make for a perfect breakfast or afternoon snack.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 cup of cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup of chopped dried figs
• 1/2 cup of cream cheese, cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup of buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the figs and cream cheese.
5. Gradually add the buttermilk, stirring until just combined.
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it a few times to bring it together.
7. Shape the dough into a 1-inch thick rectangle and cut it into squares.
8. Place the scones onto a baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.

These scones are a perfect balance of sweet and savory, with the figs adding a burst of sweetness to the rich, creamy cheese.

Fig and honey cake

Last but definitely not least is our fig and honey cake. This cake is moist, fluffy, and bursting with figgy goodness. The hint of honey adds a lovely sweetness that complements the figs beautifully.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup of honey
• 1/2 cup of buttermilk
• 1 cup of chopped fresh figs

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the honey.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
6. Fold in the figs.
7. Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

This cake is a dream come true for fig lovers. The fresh figs lend a wonderful texture and flavor to the cake, while the honey adds a touch of natural sweetness.

So there you have it - three fantastic bakes to celebrate the fruity goodness of figs. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, these recipes are sure to impress.