Fig cake I - Gateau de Figue

24 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 1 h Total: 1 h 15 m Beginner
4.0/5 (1)
Fig cake I - Gateau de Figue
One of the best Cajun known classics with figs, cinnamon, and buttermilk. Sit with your friend(s) and family and enjoy fig cake and a fresh cup of steamy coffee, coffee milk or a cold glass of root beer.. Ces’t si bon!

Ingredients

24 servings
  • 2 cups flour (all purpose)
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup cooking oil
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 to 2 cups fig preserves
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
  2. Mix all dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt) in one bowl.
  3. In another bowl, combine wet ingredients (oil, eggs, buttermilk, and fig preserves).
  4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix.
  5. Pour batter into the greased pan.
  6. Bake at 350°F for one hour or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Can I use fresh figs instead of preserves?

A: Fig preserves work best here because they provide both moisture and sweetness. Fresh figs won't give the same texture, but you could try pureeing fresh figs with a bit of sugar.

Q: Why is my cake too dense?

A: Don't overmix the batter once you combine wet and dry ingredients - this develops gluten and makes the cake heavy. Mix just until combined.

Tips and Techniques

If you don’t have buttermilk, make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes. You can also make your own fig preserves if you have fresh figs available.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • fig preserves: strawberry-fig preserves or other fruit preserves
  • buttermilk: 1 cup milk plus 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice
  • cooking oil: melted butter or vegetable oil

Equipment Needed

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • mixing bowls
  • whisk or electric mixer
  • measuring cups and spoons

Historical Context

Fig cakes are deeply rooted in Cajun tradition, dating back to when fig trees were planted at nearly every South Louisiana homestead. Preserving figs allowed families to enjoy this beloved flavor year-round in cakes, cookies, and other desserts.