Simple, Fruity Caramelized Fig Upside-Down Cake (Dairy Free!)

This is a delicious cake built around fresh figs, sugar, lemon zest, and a sweetened batter made with soy milk. The figs cook beneath the batter, allowing the sugar to create a caramelized layer while the cake itself cooks gently in a covered pan. Once flipped, the fruit takes its rightful place on top. The cake is especially suited to anyone who enjoys fruit-based desserts without wanting something overwhelmingly sweet.

What Is Caramelized Fig Upside-Down Cake?

Caramelized fig upside-down cake has a particularly interesting connection to older European and American fruit cakes, where cooks used fruit and sugar to create desserts without relying on elaborate decoration. One of the most famous similar recipes is the pineapple upside-down cake, which became especially popular in the United States during the twentieth century.

Pro Tips for the Best Caramelized Fig Upside-Down Cake

• Use fresh lemon zest, as they give the batter a bright citrus note that balances the sweetness of the sugar and figs.
• Sift the flour and baking powder, as this small step helps break up lumps before they become a problem.
• Place the fig halves cut-side down over the sugar. A neat arrangement helps distribute the fruit more evenly across the finished cake.
• Keep the pan covered while cooking because this recipe cooks on the stovetop rather than in the oven and will help the batter cook through.
• You want the sugar and fruit to caramelize without scorching. Moderate heat is your friend here; rushing the process can leave the bottom too dark before the cake has cooked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to use fresh figs?

Fresh figs are recommended because they provide the texture and moisture intended for this recipe. Dried figs behave differently and would not give you the same result. If fresh figs are available, use them for the best match to the recipe.

Can I make this cake without lemon zest?

Yes, you can leave out the lemon zest if necessary. However, it adds a pleasant taste that helps balance the sweetness of the sugar and figs. The flavor will simply be a little less citrusy.

Why is my cake not fluffy?

One possible reason is overmixing after the flour has been added. Once the flour and baking powder are incorporated, whisk only until the batter is smooth. Another possibility is that the baking powder is old.

How to Store Any Leftovers

It's best to keep the cake refrigerated because of the fresh fruit and moist texture. You should also enjoy it within a couple of days.

How to Make Caramelized Fig Upside-Down Cake

Step 1

Step 1

Add the eggs, sugar, and lemon zest to a bowl and whisk. Pour in the soy milk and vegetable oil, then give everything another good whisk. Now sift in the all-purpose flour and baking powder, and mix again to get a smooth batter.

Add the eggs, sugar, and lemon zest to a bowl and whisk. Pour in the soy milk and vegetable oil, then give everything another good whisk. Now sift in the all-purpose flour and baking powder, and mix again to get a smooth batter.

Step 2

Step 2

Wash and dry the figs, then cut each one in half lengthwise.

Wash and dry the figs, then cut each one in half lengthwise.

Step 3

Step 3

Line a suitable pan with parchment paper and sprinkle a layer of sugar over it. Arrange the halved figs over the sugar, with the cut sides facing down.

Line a suitable pan with parchment paper and sprinkle a layer of sugar over it. Arrange the halved figs over the sugar, with the cut sides facing down.

Step 4

Step 4

Now pour the prepared cake batter over the figs, cover with a lid, and cook for 15 minutes.

Now pour the prepared cake batter over the figs, cover with a lid, and cook for 15 minutes.

Step 5

Step 5

Place a serving plate firmly over the top of the pan. Holding the pan and plate securely together, carefully flip the cake onto the plate. Remove the parchment paper and cook for another 10 minutes

Place a serving plate firmly over the top of the pan. Holding the pan and plate securely together, carefully flip the cake onto the plate. Remove the parchment paper and cook for another 10 minutes

Step 6

Step 6

Transfer the finished cake to a plate, cut it into slices, and serve. Enjoy!

Transfer the finished cake to a plate, cut it into slices, and serve. Enjoy!