Scripture Cake

01Method

1. 1

   Prepare all ingredients ahead of time. Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.

2. 2

   In a large bowl, cream the softened butter together with the sugar, cinnamon, mace, cloves, and salt until smooth. Separate the eggs; whisk the yolks briefly and stir them into the butter mixture. Sift in the flour and baking powder, then mix in the water and honey until a uniform batter forms.

3. 3

   Place the figs, raisins, and almonds in a food processor with a small dusting of flour and pulse until coarsely chopped. Fold the chopped fruit and nut mixture into the batter.

4. 4

   In a clean bowl, whip the egg whites to stiff peaks, then gently fold them into the batter in two or three additions.

5. 5

   Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.

6. 6

   Bake until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean, about 45–55 minutes. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before cutting.

7. 7

   Serve as-is or finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar.