Skip to content

Robert St. John

Restaurateur, author, enthusiastic traveler, & world-class eater.

Fig Cake

The Tuscan people remind me of American Southerners. They live in a largely agrarian society. They are friendly, warm, and welcoming. Most of all, like many of us, they are enthusiastic about food, drink, and are passionate about life in general. Figs are as prolific in the Southern part of Italy as they are in the Southern portion of the United States. Pine nuts and fennel make this cake decidedly Italian.

Ingredients

4 Large egg yolks
2/3 cup Sugar
2 cups Whole milk
¼ cup Grappa
1/8 tsp Kosher salt
½ cup Polenta or fine cornmeal
½ cup Chopped fig preserves
1/3 cup Golden Raisins
¼ cup Pine nuts, toasted
1 Tbsp Fennel seed, toasted

Instructions

Preheat oven to 325.

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whip attachment, beat the yolks and sugar on high speed until pale yellow, about 3-4 minutes.

In a 1 quart sauce pot, combine the milk, Grappa and salt and bring just to a boil over medium heat, watching closely so it does not scorch. Gradually whisk into the egg mixture so as not to scramble the eggs.

Return to the sauce pot and whisk in the polenta or cornmeal and stir over medium high heat until it thickens, about 8 minutes. Fold in the fig preserves, raisins, pine nuts and fennel seeds.

Pour into a greased 9” cake pan and bake for 25 minutes. Let rest for 30 minutes before slicing.

Recent Recipes

Black-Eyed Pea Hummus

If you're looking for a creative twist on traditional hummus, black-eyed pea hummus is a delicious and nutritious option. Made with creamy black-eyed peas, tangy lemon, and a hint of garlic, this dip offers a unique Southern flair while keeping all the classic flavors you love. Perfect as a party appetizer, a spread for sandwiches, or a healthy snack, this recipe is both easy to make and irresistibly tasty.

Read more

Monkey Bread

A perfect breakfast for a house full of teenage boys. This version instructs you to make them in individual muffin tins, but they can also be made in a casserole dish. I like to top the warm, finished product with a small pat of butter and a pinch of salt.

Read more

Baked Asparagus

Bright, tender, and irresistibly flavorful, baked asparagus is a quick and healthy side dish perfect for any meal. Roasting brings out its natural sweetness while adding a delightful crispness to the tips. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, this recipe is a surefire way to elevate your veggie game.

Read more