Fig Bread
Fig Bread offers a moist, sweet treat with rich fig and raisin flavors, complemented by nutty notes, ideal for breakfast or tea-time indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut raisins and figs into small pieces.
- Cream shortening with honey until fluffy.
- Add beaten egg to the creamed mixture.
- Sift dry ingredients together (flour, baking powder, baking soda).
- Gradually add dry ingredients and milk to the mixture, alternating.
- Add sour milk, nuts, and fruits to the batter.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Allow to cool before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider soaking the figs and raisins in warm water or a splash of rum before adding them to the batter. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with melted butter or coconut oil. Adjust the sweetness by reducing the honey if you prefer a less sweet bread. Ensure that your baking powder and soda are fresh for proper leavening.
Serving Suggestions
Fig bread is delightful when served warm, with a spread of cream cheese or butter on top. It pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. For a more indulgent experience, consider slicing it and using it as a base for French toast. It also complements sweet desserts like Pralines And Brie for an elegant brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fig bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply slice and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fig Bread contains roughly 2453 calories, with 22g protein, 501g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (147% of the Daily Value), iron (66% of the Daily Value), and protein (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh figs instead of dried figs?
Yes, you can use fresh figs, but you may need to adjust the moisture in the recipe. Fresh figs contain more water than dried, so consider reducing the amount of milk slightly to maintain the right batter consistency.
What can I substitute for honey in this recipe?
If you're looking for a honey substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar can work well. Keep in mind that these alternatives may alter the flavor slightly, so choose one that complements the other ingredients in the bread.
How can I enhance the flavor of this bread?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. You might also incorporate a splash of vanilla extract or orange zest for a refreshing twist. These additions will elevate the overall taste of the fig bread.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).