Capricorn Fig Walnut Upside Down Cake

Name: Capricorn Fig Walnut Upside Down Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup figs, halved; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk

Highlighted under: Creative Sweet Recipe Ideas

Capricorn Fig Walnut Upside Down Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of figs and walnuts, creating a moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2025-12-20T11:18:49.813Z

This cake is inspired by the earthy flavors of Capricorn, combining figs and walnuts for a unique taste. Perfect for gatherings, it’s sure to impress your guests!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich fig flavor complemented by crunchy walnuts
Moist and tender cake that melts in your mouth
A stunning presentation for any dessert table

      

Flavor Profile of the Cake

The Capricorn Fig Walnut Upside Down Cake is a true celebration of flavors. The combination of rich, sweet figs and crunchy walnuts creates a delightful contrast in texture that makes each bite a treat. Figs bring a natural sweetness and a hint of earthiness, while walnuts add a satisfying crunch, enhancing the overall flavor experience. This cake is perfect for those who appreciate desserts that offer more than just sweetness.

In addition to the figs and walnuts, the cake itself is infused with a light vanilla flavor that complements the toppings beautifully. The buttermilk used in the cake batter contributes to its moistness, ensuring a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. This harmonious blend of flavors and textures makes it an unforgettable dessert choice for any occasion.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply looking for a delicious treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea, this cake is an excellent choice. Its impressive presentation, with the caramelized figs and walnuts on top, makes it a stunning centerpiece on any dessert table. Guests will be drawn to its beautiful appearance, and they'll be even more delighted when they taste it.

Moreover, this cake can be served warm right out of the oven or at room temperature, making it versatile for different settings. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience. No matter the occasion, the Capricorn Fig Walnut Upside Down Cake is sure to impress and satisfy.

Storage and Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare given how delicious this cake is!), storing it properly will help maintain its freshness. Allow the cake to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. Stored this way, it can last for up to three days at room temperature, or you can refrigerate it for about a week.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy a piece, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it up in the oven for a few minutes. This way, you can savor the flavors of this delightful cake even after the occasion has passed.

Ingredients

For the Topping

1 cup figs, halved
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter

For the Cake

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk

Make sure to prepare all your ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth baking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Topping

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Once melted, pour this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch round cake pan.

Arrange the halved figs and chopped walnuts on top.

Make the Cake Batter

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine and Bake

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour. Pour the batter over the fig and walnut mixture in the cake pan. Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious Capricorn Fig Walnut Upside Down Cake!

Tips for Success

To ensure the best results with your Capricorn Fig Walnut Upside Down Cake, using fresh figs is key. If fresh figs are unavailable, you can use dried figs, but be sure to soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes to rehydrate them. This will help mimic the moisture and sweetness of fresh figs in your cake.

Additionally, when measuring your flour, be sure to spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents packing and ensures you don't end up with a dense cake. If you want to enhance the flavor further, consider adding a hint of cinnamon to the batter for a warm, aromatic touch.

Serving Suggestions

The Capricorn Fig Walnut Upside Down Cake can be enjoyed on its own, but there are numerous ways to elevate the serving experience. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup over the top adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the figs beautifully. You might also consider dusting the cake with powdered sugar right before serving for a touch of elegance.

For those who love a bit of acidity, serving the cake with a side of Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can balance the sweetness, making each bite more refreshing. These additions also introduce a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the moist cake and crunchy walnuts.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried figs instead of fresh?

Yes, but you may want to soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes to soften them.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! It can be made a day ahead and stored covered. Reheat slightly before serving.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can use regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.