Fig Cake II - Gateau de Figue

12 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 1 h Total: 1 h 15 m Intermediate
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Fig Cake II - Gateau de Figue
A traditional Cajun spice cake made with fresh figs, pecans, and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This moist fig cake is perfect for celebrating the late summer fig harvest or enjoying with coffee year-round.

Ingredients

12 servings
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp cloves
  • 1 cup pecans finely chopped
  • 3 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup butter melted
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 2 1/2 cups flour all purpose
  • 1 1/4 cups figs, cooked & mashed

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Mix the baking soda in the milk and set aside. This activates the baking soda and helps the cake rise.
  2. Combine the sugar, flour, spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves), pecans, beaten eggs, melted butter, and mashed figs in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Mix in the baking soda/milk mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the batter is smooth.
  4. Place batter in a well-greased 9x13 inch pan and bake at 375°F for about 1 hour. The cake is done when you stick a toothpick in the center and it comes out clean.
  5. Let cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Can I use fig preserves instead of fresh figs?

A: Yes, you can substitute fig preserves, but reduce the sugar to 1 1/2 cups since preserves are already sweetened. Drain off excess syrup before measuring.

Q: Why did my cake turn out dry?

A: Overbaking is the most common cause. Check the cake at 50 minutes - it's done when a toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The cake will continue cooking slightly as it cools.

Q: Can I make this ahead?

A: Absolutely! This cake actually improves after a day as the flavors meld. Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Tips and Techniques

For the best texture, make sure your figs are well-mashed with no large chunks. If using fresh figs, simmer them with a splash of water for 10-15 minutes until very soft before mashing. The cake is delicious served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • pecans: walnuts or chopped almonds
  • fresh figs: [fig preserves](/recipes/fig-preserves-i/) or [fig jam](/recipes/strawberry-fig-jam/)
  • butter: vegetable oil or coconut oil

Equipment Needed

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Historical Context

Gâteau de Figue is a cherished Cajun dessert that emerged from the abundance of fig trees across South Louisiana. Nearly every Cajun family had a fig tree in the yard, and this cake became a staple way to use the generous harvest.