Fig and Black Pepper Honey Cake


I love this cake because it's so savory. Which I know, is a weird thing to say. But it's true!
It's not savory in the sense that it's like a meatloaf. You can certainly taste whatever honey and olive oil you use (so choose wisely) but the addition of black pepper makes it seem oh so fancy and the figs add a nice, light crunch. 

This kind of cake complements those flavors that dance on the edge between savory and sweet. Sage, rosemary, or thyme are good things to play with. The result is moist and flavorful but still light from all the eggs.




I also like the addition of yogurt in this cake. I've used both plain regular yogurt and Greek yogurt and both work quite nicely. No butter means you can whisk it quickly in a bowl and have it in the oven in about 15 minutes. 

I've made this twice already and both times it's been devoured. It's great for a brunch, baby shower or any casual occasion that needs just an extra side dish. Or you can eat it alone as breakfast with a nice cup of caffeine. I would serve it as a dessert but with some jam or fruit to make sure it qualifies.


Honey & Yogurt Cake
Adapted from a recipe at The Kitchn
8 to 12 servings

1 cup plain yogurt (regular or Greek)
⅔ cup honey
⅔ cup olive oil
3 large eggs
1½ cups flour
½ tsp. baking powder
½ tsp. baking soda
Pinch of kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
½ cup coarsely chopped fresh or dried figs

Jam or fresh fruit, for serving (optional)

• Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Grease a 9-inch cake pan with nonstick spray line the bottom with parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, honey and olive oil. Whisk in the eggs, then use a rubber spatula to gently fold in the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.
• Pour the batter into the pan and sprinkle the figs over the top. Bake 40 to 50 minutes, until golden and a knife inserted into the center (avoid poking the figs) comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached.
• Let cool at least 10 minutes before removing from the pan. Serve warm or at room temperature with jam or fresh fruit, if desired.

Comments

Popular Posts