Fig Spice Cake

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. 2
   Cover figs with boiling water.
3. 3
   Let stand 10 minutes; drain and reserve water.
4. 4
   Chop off stems and, using scissors, cut fine.
5. 5
   Mix 1/2 cup of reserved fig water with yogurt.
6. 6
   Set aside.
7. 7
   Sift flour, baking powder, salt, spices and baking soda together twice.
8. 8
   Cream shortening and sugar together until fluffy.
9. 9
   Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
10. 10
    Add vanilla.
11. 11
    Add sifted ingredients alternately with yogurt mixture, beating until smooth after each addition.
12. 12
    Add nuts and figs.
13. 13
    Turn mixture into greased 9-inch tube pan and bake 50 minutes to 1 hour.
14. 14
    Let stand briefly.
15. 15
    Unmold cake while still warm onto round dish.
16. 16
    Sprinkle with confectioners' sugar.