Creating a Ricotta Cheese and Fig Cake for a gathering of 50 people involves crafting a cake that marries the creamy texture of ricotta with the sweet, natural flavor of figs. This cake is rich, moist, and has a delightful balance of flavors.

Ingredients

• 450g all-purpose flour
• 350g granulated sugar
• 250g unsalted butter, softened
• 250g ricotta cheese
• 200g dried figs, chopped
• 120ml milk
• 4 large eggs
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 15g baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 100g granulated sugar
• 50g butter
• Fresh figs, sliced for garnish
• Optional: Honey for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans:

• Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
• Grease and flour two large 9×13 inch cake pans, or a similar setup that accommodates the volume.

1. Prepare Figs:

• If using dried figs, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to soften, then drain and chop.

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

1. Cream Butter, Sugar, and Ricotta:

• In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, sugar, and ricotta cheese until smooth and well combined.
• Add eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest.

1. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Stir until just combined.
• Fold in the chopped figs.

1. Bake:

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

1. Prepare the Topping:

• In a small pan, melt the butter and sugar until bubbly.
• Pour over the warm cakes and arrange sliced fresh figs on top.

1. Cool and Serve:

• Allow the cakes to cool in the pans on a wire rack.
• Once cooled, you can add a drizzle of honey over the top if desired.

1. Serve:
   • Cut into pieces, ensuring each guest gets a slice. Aim for evenly sized pieces, cutting each 9×13 inch cake into about 25 pieces for a total of 50 servings.

This Ricotta Cheese and Fig Cake offers a beautifully textured, creamy and fruity dessert option that’s perfect for sophisticated gatherings, combining the richness of ricotta with the unique taste and sweetness of figs.