Desserts > History of Desserts > Ancient Desserts > Fruit Preparations as Ancient Desserts

Ancient Egyptian Fig and Honey Cakes

Experience a taste of ancient Egypt with these simple fig and honey cakes. Figs were a staple food in ancient Egypt, and combined with honey, they created a sweet and satisfying treat. This recipe offers a glimpse into the culinary practices of the time, highlighting the resourcefulness of using readily available ingredients to create delicious desserts.

Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Servings
6-8
Ingredients
  • 250 g Dried Figs
  • 100 g All-Purpose Flour
  • 3 tablespoons Honey
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 2-3 tablespoons Water

Fig Preparation

Chop the dried figs into small pieces. If the figs are very hard, soak them in warm water for 15 minutes to soften them, then drain well.

Dough Preparation

In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped figs, flour, honey, and olive oil. Mix well. Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture forms a thick, doughy consistency. The dough should be moist but not sticky.

Forming the Cakes

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking sheet. Take small portions of the dough and form them into small, round cakes. Place the cakes on the prepared baking sheet.

Baking

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cakes are golden brown. Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving

Serve the fig and honey cakes at room temperature. They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: Approximately 300-350 kcal. Carbohydrates: 50-60g. Protein: 3-5g. Fat: 8-12g. Fiber: 4-6g. Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

These cakes are a good source of fiber and natural sugars from figs and honey. However, they are also relatively high in calories and carbohydrates. Portion control is important. People with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels when consuming these cakes.

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FAQ

  • Can I add spices to the dough?

    Yes, you can add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the dough for added flavor. These spices were also used in ancient Egyptian cuisine.
  • Can I use a different type of flour?

    You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a more nutritious option. The texture of the cakes may be slightly different.