Granny Clara's Fig Cake - Gateau de Figue

24 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 45 m Total: 1 h Beginner
5.0/5 (1)
Granny Clara's Fig Cake - Gateau de Figue
One of the classics! This fig cake with pecans and cinnamon turns a golden brown color and fills the entire house with an aroma that lets you know it’s gonna be good! Made with homemade fig preserves for authentic Louisiana flavor.

Ingredients

24 servings
  • 2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 cup cooking oil
  • 2 cups fig preserves
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp vanilla flavoring
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. In a large mixing bowl combine all ingredients (flour, oil, fig preserves, cinnamon, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla, salt, and pecans if using), stir well until fully combined.
  3. Spray a 13x9 inch baking pan with cooking spray and pour batter into prepared pan.
  4. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes, or until cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
  5. Let cool slightly before serving. Serve with ice cream or a glass of cold milk.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Can I use store-bought fig preserves?

A: Yes, store-bought fig preserves work fine, but homemade [fig preserves](/recipes/fig-preserves-i/) give the most authentic flavor and texture. If using store-bought, choose a quality brand with visible fig pieces.

Q: Why is my cake too dense?

A: Make sure not to overmix the batter - stir just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can develop too much gluten and make the cake heavy.

Tips and Techniques

You can make your own fig preserves when figs are in season for an even more authentic cake. The cake is also delicious served warm with fig ice cream for a real Louisiana treat.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • fig preserves: strawberry or blackberry preserves
  • chopped pecans: walnuts or leave out entirely
  • cooking oil: vegetable oil or canola oil

Equipment Needed

  • 13x9 inch baking pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Mixing spoon or electric mixer

Historical Context

Gateau de Figue is a beloved Louisiana dessert that dates back generations, born from the abundance of fig trees that thrive in South Louisiana’s humid climate. Families would preserve their fig harvests to enjoy in cakes, preserves, and desserts throughout the year.