Difficulty: Easy | Yields: 1 Loaf
A delicacy dating back to Moorish Spain, Pan de Higo is a dense, naturally sweet fig cake infused with nuts, spices, and a touch of anise or brandy. 🇪🇸✨ Traditionally made in Andalusia as a way to preserve figs after the harvest, this rich and chewy cake was often enjoyed with cheese, wine, or coffee. Packed with energy and nutrients, it was a favorite among travelers and farmers, making it a true historical superfood! 🍽️🔥
Ingredients For Pan de Higo
🔥 For the Fig Cake:
☑ 2 cups dried figs, stems removed and chopped 🍂
☑ ½ cup almonds, toasted and chopped 🌰
☑ ½ cup walnuts or hazelnuts, chopped 🥜
☑ 1 teaspoon🥄 ground cinnamon ✨
☑ ½ teaspoon🥄 ground cloves 🏺
☑ ½ teaspoon🥄 anise seeds 🌿
☑ 1 tablespoon🥄 honey 🍯
☑ 2 tablespoons🥄 brandy or sweet wine 🍷 (optional)
☑ ½ teaspoon🥄 orange zest 🍊
🔥 For Coating & Serving:
☑ Powdered sugar (optional) ✨
☑ Fresh cheese or Manchego for pairing 🧀
👩🍳 Cooking Steps For Pan de Higo
🔥 Step 1: Prepare the Fig Mixture
1️⃣ Chop dried figs into small pieces and place them in a bowl.
2️⃣ Add toasted almonds, walnuts, cinnamon, cloves, anise seeds, honey, brandy (if using), and orange zest.
3️⃣ Mix thoroughly until the ingredients form a sticky, cohesive paste.
🔥 Step 2: Shape & Press the Cake
1️⃣ Place the mixture onto parchment paper and shape it into a compact round or rectangular loaf about 1 inch thick.
2️⃣ Press firmly with your hands or a rolling pin to ensure a solid texture.
🔥 Step 3: Dry & Cure
1️⃣ Allow the fig cake to rest at room temperature for 1-2 days, letting the flavors develop.
2️⃣ For a firmer texture, refrigerate for a few hours before slicing.
🔥 Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
1️⃣ Slice into thin pieces and dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired.
2️⃣ Pair with cheese, nuts, or a glass of wine for a true Andalusian experience!
Pan de Higo: A Timeless Spanish Treat! 🍂🔥
With its deep fig flavor, crunchy nuts, and warm spices, Pan de Higo is a delicious blend of history and tradition. Whether enjoyed as a simple snack or an elegant pairing, this Spanish fig cake is a must-try for lovers of ancient flavors! 🚀🌍 Craving More Extreme Culinary Adventures? If you’re fascinated by rare and ancient food traditions, explore our guide to Jhal Muri: Kolkata’s Iconic Spicy Puffed Rice Snack! You Need to Try! with Indigenous Roots for the Adventurous Food Lover.
Discover rare culinary experiences at Good Food and More—where every recipe is a journey through heritage, craftsmanship, and unforgettable flavors.