old-fashioned fig bars recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best old-fashioned fig bars recipe

I’ve been making old-fashioned fig bars for years, and they never fail to impress my family and friends. These sweet and tangy treats are a staple in our household, especially during the holidays.

I love how the combination of figs, sugar, and spices creates a unique flavor that’s both sweet and savory. The best part is that these bars are incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal preparation time.

My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, and they love being able to customize their own bars with different toppings. As for me, I appreciate how this recipe allows me to use up leftover ingredients and reduce food waste.

Plus, the end result is a deliciously chewy bar that’s perfect for snacking on the go or serving at a party. Whether you’re looking for a simple dessert or a tasty snack, old-fashioned fig bars are sure to satisfy your cravings.

I’ve experimented with various recipes over the years, but this one remains my favorite due to its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The addition of nuts adds a delightful crunch to each bite, while the honey provides a touch of sweetness without overpowering the other ingredients.

Old-Fashioned Fig Bars

4.8 from 1318 votes

These old-fashioned fig bars feature a sweet and fruity filling encased in a tender, buttery crust. They are perfect for a nostalgic treat or a delightful snack.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 250 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup milk

For the Filling

1 cup dried figs, stemmed and chopped
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup honey
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3In a food processor, combine flour, salt, and cubed butter.
4Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5Add sugar and milk, then pulse until the dough comes together.
6Divide the dough into two equal pieces, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
7While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling.
8In a small saucepan, combine chopped figs, water, and honey.
9Cook over medium heat until the figs are soft and the mixture has thickened slightly, about 10-15 minutes.
10Stir in cinnamon and set aside to cool.
11Once cool, transfer the mixture to a food processor and blend until smooth.
12On a lightly floured surface, roll out one piece of chilled dough into a rectangle about 1/8-inch thick.
13Spread the cooled fig filling evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
14Roll out the second piece of dough to the same size and place it on top of the filling.
15Press the edges to seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges.
16Cut the dough into rectangles or squares.
17Place the fig bars on the prepared baking sheet.
18Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
19Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Food processor or pastry cutter
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Rolling pin
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 250 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 150mg🌾Total Carbs: 37g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 15g🥩Protein: 3g

📝Notes

Tips: For a sweeter crust, you can add a bit more sugar to the dough. If you prefer a smoother filling, blend the fig mixture until completely smooth.

Watch Video Of How Old-Fashioned Fig Bars Works

These old-fashioned fig bars are perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick snack on-the-go. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is; you can easily adjust the ingredients based on your dietary needs and preferences.

For example, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply swap out traditional flour with almond flour or coconut flour. Another great aspect is how easy it is to store these bars – simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate or freeze until needed.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Old-Fashioned Fig Bars

Q1: What type of figs should I use for this recipe?

A1: You can use either fresh or dried figs for this recipe. Fresh figs will give you a more vibrant flavor and texture, while dried figs will provide a more intense sweetness. If using fresh figs, be sure to chop them up into small pieces before adding them to the mixture.

Q2: Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?

A2: Yes, you can replace the honey with another sweetener like maple syrup or agave nectar. However, keep in mind that these alternatives may change the flavor profile of your bars slightly.

Q3: How do I store these bars once they’re made?

A3: Store your old-fashioned fig bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing them individually in plastic bags or containers.

Q4: Can I make these bars vegan by using plant-based milk?

A4: Yes, you can replace traditional milk with plant-based milk alternatives like almond milk or soy milk. Just ensure that your chosen milk substitute is unsweetened and unflavored.

Q5: Why do my fig bars always turn out too crumbly?

A5: To prevent crumbliness, make sure you press your mixture into a well-greased pan before baking it. Also, avoid overbaking your bars as this can cause them to dry out excessively.

Q6: Can I customize this recipe by adding different spices or herbs?

A6: Feel free to experiment with various spices or herbs to create unique flavor combinations that suit your taste preferences.

Similar Posts