Instructions:

Chocolate Fig Pudding

1/3 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/3 cup ground semisweet chocolate
1/2 cup ground almonds
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup milk
1 cup diced, dried black figs

In food processor or large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract. Add cocoa powder, ground chocolate and almonds; mix until light and fluffy.

In separate, medium-size mixing bowl, sift together flour, salt, cream of tartar and baking soda. Add dry ingredients alternately with milk to chocolate mixture. Blend slowly until smooth. Fold in figs. Pour batter into greased 1 1/2-quart pudding mold. Place on rack in large, deep steamer pot or roasting pan with 1 inch boiling water. Steam at moderate heat on top of stove for 1 1/2 hours, checking water level every half hour. Unmold. Serve warm, dusted with confectioners' sugar or topped with whipped cream.

NOTE: This may be made several days in advance and refrigerated. Reheat in steamer before serving. Makes approximately 8 slices.