Fig bread is a wonderfully moist and flavorful treat that combines the natural sweetness of figs with warm spices. Perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or as a delightful dessert, this bread is packed with rich flavors and a dense texture that melts in your mouth. Fresh or dried figs can be used, adding a unique fruity flavor and chewy texture. The addition of nuts, like walnuts or pecans, gives a nice crunch, while the warm aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg makes this loaf feel comforting and homely. Whether served with a smear of butter or on its own, fig bread is a cozy, sweet indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried figs, chopped
- 1/2 cup hot water
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or buttermilk
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare figs: In a small bowl, soak the chopped dried figs in hot water for about 10 minutes to soften them. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the yogurt or buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in figs and nuts: Gently fold in the softened figs and chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed in the batter.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the fig bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
This fig bread stores well and can be enjoyed fresh or toasted with a little butter for a comforting treat.
