Upside Down Almond Fig Cake
The Upside Down Almond Fig Cake is an elegant and moist dessert combining fresh figs and toasted almonds with a buttery, tender crumb. Caramelized on top with butter and sugar, it offers a unique flavor pairing and a beautiful presentation perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or tea time.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Fig Topping
- Fresh figs, halved or quartered (about 8-10 figs)
- Toasted almonds (1/2 cup, roughly chopped)
- Butter (4 tablespoons)
- Sugar (1/2 cup, granulated)
Cake Batter
- Butter, softened (1/2 cup / 113 grams)
- Sugar (1/2 cup / 100 grams)
- Eggs (2 large)
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
- Almond extract (optional, 1/2 teaspoon)
- All-purpose flour (1 cup / 125 grams) or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon)
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
- Honey or maple syrup (3 tablespoons)
- Prepare the Fig Topping: Slice fresh figs into halves or quarters and toast the almonds until golden. Melt butter and sugar together in your cake pan over medium heat to create a caramel base. Arrange the figs and toasted almonds evenly on top in a decorative pattern, which will become the cake’s glossy crown once flipped.
- Mix the Batter: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla and almond extracts. Alternately add the sifted flour, baking powder, salt, and honey, mixing gently to maintain a smooth, well-combined batter.
- Pour Batter Over Topping: Carefully spoon the batter over the arranged figs and almonds in the pan, ensuring the topping stays in place. Smooth the surface evenly to ensure uniform baking and perfect texture.
- Bake the Cake: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges slightly pull away from the pan.
- Cool and Flip: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then carefully invert it onto a serving plate so the caramelized fig and almond topping is revealed, showcasing a stunning presentation.
Notes
- Use ripe, fresh figs for maximum sweetness and soft texture.
- Toast almonds evenly to avoid burning and bring out their flavor.
- Soften butter to room temperature for smoother batter and better rise.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before flipping to prevent the topping from sticking or breaking.
- Line your pan with parchment paper or grease it well to ensure easy removal and protect the caramel topping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of cake)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: upside down cake, almond fig cake, fig dessert, nutty cake, elegant cake, gluten free dessert, caramelized topping