Favorite Fig Bars Recipe

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about my Favorite Fig Bars Recipe. Every time I take a bite, I’m transported back to those sun-drenched afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the sweet aroma of figs would linger in the air. As a child, I loved watching her transform simple ingredients into these delightful bars, and now, I cherish the opportunity to share this recipe with my own family. These fig bars have a unique way of blending the natural sweetness of figs with wholesome oats, creating a snack that is both satisfying and nutritious. Every bite tells a story of love, tradition, and deliciousness.

Everything You Need for Favorite Fig Bars Recipe

Creating these delightful fig bars means sourcing some quality ingredients that work harmoniously together to create a delectable treat. The key players in this recipe are dried figs, oats, and peanut butter, which not only add flavor but also a nutritional punch. Each ingredient plays a role in ensuring your bars come out perfectly every time, providing a balance of sweetness and texture.

• Dried Figs: 1 cup (stems removed, about 12-14; pack them tightly in the cup) – The star of this recipe, dried figs provide natural sweetness and a chewy texture that complements the bars beautifully.
• Orange Juice: ½ cup – Adds brightness and a hint of acidity that balances the sweetness of the figs.
• Instant Oats: 2 cups (or oat flour or rolled oats ground briefly in a food processor or blender) – A great source of fiber, oats serve as the base and give structure to the bars.
• Honey: ¼ cup (or maple syrup) – This natural sweetener enhances the flavor profile while helping to bind the ingredients.
• Whole-Wheat Flour: ¼ cup – Brings a slight nuttiness to the bars, making them heartier.
• Peanut Butter: ¼ cup (or sunflower seed butter) – Provides creaminess and an irresistible nutty flavor that ties the bars together.
• Milk: ½ cup – Ensures the mixture has the right consistency; you can use dairy or a plant-based alternative.
• Vanilla: 1 teaspoon – A splash of vanilla adds depth to the flavor.
• Cinnamon: ½ teaspoon – A warming spice that enhances the overall flavor, making each bite cozy.
• Baking Powder: ¼ teaspoon – Helps the bars rise slightly, providing a better texture.
• Salt: ¼ teaspoon – Enhances all the flavors, ensuring a balanced taste.

Putting Together Favorite Fig Bars Recipe

Making these Favorite Fig Bars Recipe is an enjoyable process that yields delicious results. From the aromas wafting through your kitchen to the final product, every step is a treat. Let’s dive into the process of creating these delightful fig bars.

1. Start by removing the stems from the figs. Then, add them to a small saucepan along with the orange juice. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then turn off the heat and cover the pan to let it sit for ten minutes. This allows the figs to soften and absorb the flavors from the orange juice.
2. After the figs have soaked, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a food processor or blender. Add a quarter of the orange juice from the pot and blend until it becomes a thick fig jam. The texture should be smooth with small pieces of figs still visible.
3. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring to leave a few inches overhang on two sides. This will help you lift the bars out later once they cool.
4. In a large bowl, place the oats and mix in all the remaining ingredients, excluding the fig jam. You might find it easier to use your hands to combine the mixture. It should hold together when pressed between your fingers. If it feels crumbly, add 1-2 tablespoons of additional milk.
5. Set aside three-quarters of a cup of the batter; this will be used as a topping for the bars.
6. Press the remaining batter evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, making sure to cover all corners for even cooking.
7. Spread the fig jam you created on top of the pressed batter, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
8. Crumble the remaining dough over the fig jam and gently press it down. This will create a crumbly topping that adds texture to the finished bars.
9. Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 22 to 24 minutes. You want the top to be lightly golden brown. When done, remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan for the best results.
10. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice them into bars of your desired size and enjoy your homemade Favorite Fig Bars.

Helpful Notes about Favorite Fig Bars Recipe

When making these bars, there are a few tips to keep in mind for the best results. Master these notes, and you’ll have a foolproof recipe in your kitchen repertoire.

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. This helps maintain their moisture and flavor.
• Freezing: You can freeze these bars in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or in the fridge before enjoying them again.
• Serving Temperature: If you prefer a softer texture, serve them at room temperature rather than chilled.
• Parchment Paper Tip: Always line the pan with parchment paper. This technique helps lift the bars out easily and prevents sticking.
• Ingredient Variations: Feel free to swap peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for different flavors.
• Gluten-Free Option: To make these bars gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free rolled oats.
• Sweetness Level: If you like your bars sweeter, consider adding a couple of tablespoons of honey or maple syrup to the fig jam.

Serving Ideas for Favorite Fig Bars Recipe

These Favorite Fig Bars Recipe are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

• Snack Time: Perfect as a mid-afternoon snack to keep you energized throughout the day.
• Brunch Delight: Serve them alongside coffee or tea for a delightful brunch treat.
• Gift Them: Wrap them up and give them as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends or family.
• With Yogurt: Crumble a bar over a bowl of yogurt for added texture and flavor.
• Seasonal Pairing: Enjoy them during fall gatherings or holiday celebrations, as they embody the flavors of the season.
• Storage Tips: Remember, they can last up to 5 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Favorite Fig Bars Recipe is truly special, combining delicious flavors with wholesome ingredients to create an unforgettable treat. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or sharing them with friends, these bars are sure to impress. I encourage you to try making these bars at home—you’ll love the process and the delightful results!

Favorite Fig Bars Recipe

The ultimate comfort food, my Favorite Fig Bars Recipe combines the sweetness of figs with wholesome oats for an easy weeknight treat. With their chewy texture and delicious flavor, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Make them tonight for a snack that everyone will love!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 24 minutes mins

Total Time 39 minutes mins

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Dried Figs stems removed, about 12-14; pack them tightly in the cup
• ½ cup Orange Juice
• 2 cups Instant Oats or oat flour or rolled oats ground briefly in a food processor or blender
• ¼ cup Honey or maple syrup
• ¼ cup Whole-Wheat Flour
• ¼ cup Peanut Butter or sunflower seed butter
• ½ cup Milk
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla
• ½ teaspoon Cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon Baking Powder
• ¼ teaspoon Salt

Equipment

• 8×8-inch Baking Pan
• Storage Containers

Method

 

1. Remove the stems from the figs. Add to a small saucepan with the orange juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then turn off the heat, cover, and let sit for 10 minutes.
2. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the figs to a food processor or blender. Add ¼ of the orange juice from the pot. Blend into a thick fig jam.
3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a few inches overhang on two sides so you can easily lift the bars out when they’re cooled.
4. Place the oats into a bowl and mix with the remaining ingredients except the fig jam. You may need to use your hands to get it mixed well. (It should hold together when pressed between your fingers. If it's crumbly add 1-2 tablespoons additional milk.)
5. Set aside ¾ cup of the batter. This will go on top of the bars.
6. Place the remaining batter into the bottom of the prepared baking pan and press down evenly to cover.
7. Spread the fig jam on top.
8. Crumble the remaining dough over the fig jam and press down slightly.
9. Bake for 22-24 minutes, remove from oven, and let cool completely in the pan. When cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and slice into bars.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. Or freeze in a zip top freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the fridge. If you want them a little softer, serve them at room temperature rather than chilled. Line the pan with parchment paper so the bars are easy to lift out of the pan and slice. You can also use almond butter or sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter. Use store-bought fig jam to save a few steps. Gluten-free: Use gluten free flour blend and certified gluten free rolled oats. You can use instant oats or oat flour. Or grind rolled oats briefly in a food processor or blender. Add 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup to the fig puree to make it sweeter if you like.

Previous PostAir Fryer Chicken Fajitas

Next Post Cranberry Protein Balls

Meet Harper Dean

I love the creative challenge of making weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. I work alongside the team to develop and test recipes that are reliable but never dull. I prepared this meal in my own kitchen, refining the steps to make sure your cooking experience is smooth, fun, and delicious.