Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of moist, subtly sweet cake, bursting with the fragrant warmth of almonds and the creamy tang of ricotta. This Southern Italian Almond & Ricotta Fig Cake is more than just a dessert; it's an experience. The delicate texture, punctuated by the juicy bursts of fresh figs, transports you to sun-drenched Italian hillsides, where the scent of ripening fruit mingles with the earthy aroma of almond blossoms. This recipe, passed down through generations, uses simple, high-quality ingredients to create a truly unforgettable taste. The combination of almond's nutty depth, ricotta's delicate richness, and fig's sweet-tartness is a symphony of flavor.
This recipe expertly balances sweetness and subtle savory notes, making it the perfect accompaniment to an afternoon tea or a celebratory gathering. The cake's beauty lies not only in its taste but also in its simplicity; the ingredients are readily available, and the method surprisingly straightforward. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Southern Italy? Let's begin with the step-by-step guide to crafting this delightful Almond & Ricotta Fig Cake.
Tools Needed
- Food processor or mixer with whip attachment
- 9-inch springform cake pan
Ingredients
- Figs
- All-purpose flour: 3/4 cup
- Almond flour: 1 cup
- Baking powder
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Butter: 1 stick
- Sugar: 1 cup
- Eggs: 2
- Almond extract: 1 tablespoon
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Ricotta cheese: 15 oz (approx 2 cups)
- Honey: 3 tablespoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Batter
- all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a mixer, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy (3-5 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, scraping down the bowl after each addition.
- Add almond and vanilla extracts.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the ricotta cheese.
Step 2. Assemble and Bake the Cake
- Slice washed figs into thirds.
- Pour batter into a prepared springform pan and arrange fig slices on top.
- Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 1 hour, or until golden brown and firm.
Step 3. Cool and Serve
- Let cool completely before serving.
Read more: Castagnaccio Recipe: Authentic Tuscan Gluten-Free Cake
Tips
- Choose figs of similar size for a more beautiful presentation.
- Don't push the figs into the batter; arrange them gently on top to avoid them sinking.
- For the whipped ricotta cream: In a food processor or mixer, whip together ricotta cheese and honey until light and airy. Add a small amount of olive oil to emulsify.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the fresh figs with dried figs?
Yes, you can! Use about ½ cup of dried figs, chopped, and rehydrated in warm water for 15-20 minutes before adding to the batter. You may need to adjust the sugar slightly, as dried figs are sweeter.
2. What type of ricotta cheese should I use?
Use whole milk ricotta for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using low-fat or part-skim ricotta, as it will make the cake drier.
This Southern Italian Almond & Ricotta Fig Cake is a testament to the simple elegance of Italian baking. Its delightful blend of textures and flavors will surely impress your friends and family, leaving them wanting more. Enjoy the sweet taste of the Mediterranean sun with every delicious bite!