This easy fig bread is a real treat! With sweet, fresh figs mixed into a soft, warm bread, it’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. Plus, the smell while it bakes is simply mouth-watering!
I love enjoying a slice with my morning coffee. And let’s be honest, it’s hard to stop at just one piece! Your kitchen will feel so cozy, you’ll want to bake it every week.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Figs: These are the star of the show! Their natural sweetness adds a lovely flavor. If fresh figs aren’t available, you can use dried figs; just chop them and soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to hydrate.
All-Purpose Flour: Standard for baking, it gives the bread its structure. If you need a gluten-free option, try using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour, which works well in most recipes.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the bread, but you can also use brown sugar for a deeper flavor. For a healthier choice, coconut sugar or maple syrup can work, just adjust the liquid in the recipe accordingly.
Yogurt/Sour Cream: This adds moisture and richness to the bread. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based yogurt or a non-dairy milk mixed with a splash of vinegar to mimic the tangy flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Fig Bread Doesn’t Turn Out Dry?
To keep your fig bread moist, avoid overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense loaf. When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix gently until just combined.
- Check the doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean but not overly dry.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for a bit. It helps keep moisture inside.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil if saving some for later. This will help retain moisture.
Easy Fig Bread with Fresh Figs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup fresh figs, chopped
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fig bread recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 50-60 minutes to bake, making for a total of about 1 hour and 15 minutes until it’s ready to enjoy. Be sure to let it cool for a bit before slicing into it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan, or you can line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This will help your bread bake evenly and come out without sticking!
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Use a whisk to mix them well so that everything is evenly distributed and there are no clumps.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the two large eggs. Then, add the melted butter (make sure it’s cooled down), yogurt (or sour cream), and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and combined.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold the two together using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
5. Add the Fresh Figs:
Now, carefully fold in the chopped fresh figs into the batter, making sure they are evenly distributed without breaking them apart too much.
6. Bake the Bread:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice it up and enjoy it plain or with some butter on top!
Hope you enjoy the warm, delicious goodness of this easy fig bread!
FAQ for Easy Fig Bread with Fresh Figs
Can I Use Dried Figs Instead of Fresh Figs?
Yes, you can use dried figs in place of fresh figs! Just be sure to chop them into small pieces and soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the batter. This will help rehydrate them and improve the texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this fig bread gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free to ensure the whole recipe is safe for those with gluten intolerance.
How Should I Store Leftover Fig Bread?
Store any leftover fig bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to a week, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to slice it before freezing for easier thawing!
Can I Add Nuts or Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch. You could also stir in a handful of chocolate chips or a dash of orange zest for extra flavor. Just remember to adjust the quantity of figs if you add other bulky ingredients!
