These Easy Fresh Fig Bars are a delightful treat! With a soft crust and a sweet fig filling, they are perfect for snacking or dessert. Plus, they pack a fruity punch!
Honestly, who could say no to gooey figs? I love having these bars with a cup of tea. They’re easy to make, and the sweet smell while baking makes the house feel cozy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Figs: Fresh figs are the star of the show! If fresh figs aren’t available, you can use dried figs. Just soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes and chop before using. It won’t taste quite the same, but it’ll still be delicious!
All-Purpose Flour: This is perfect for the crust. If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, try using almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just note that it might change the texture a little, but it can still be delightful!
Unsalted Butter: I recommend using unsalted butter to control the salt content. If you’re in a pinch, coconut oil or vegan butter makes a great substitute for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar: This keeps things sweet! You could replace it with brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or use honey or maple syrup for a natural alternative—just adjust the wet ingredients accordingly.
How Do I Get the Best Fig Filling?
Making a filling that isn’t too runny is key! When preparing the fig mixture, the cornstarch helps thicken it. If your figs are very ripe, add a bit more cornstarch to ensure it sets well in the bars.
- Combine the figs with sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a bowl. Stir gently to coat without mashing.
- Let the filling sit for a few minutes before spreading it over the crust. This helps the juices mix in with the cornstarch, making it thicker.
Knowing how to balance the sweetness and the texture will elevate your fig bars, making them a real treat!
How to Make Easy Fresh Fig Bars with Sweet Filling
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust and Topping:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Sweet Fig Filling:
- 2 cups fresh figs, stemmed and chopped
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 35 to 40 minutes to bake. After baking, let the bars cool completely before slicing, which will take about 30 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes to have delicious fig bars ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your fig bars bake evenly and get that lovely golden color. Don’t forget to grease or line an 8×8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper to make removing the bars easier later!
2. Make the Dough:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Meanwhile, in a larger bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix! The dough will be slightly crumbly, which is just right for this recipe.
4. Form the Crust:
Take about two-thirds of the dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. This will create a nice crust for your fig filling.
5. Prepare the Fig Filling:
In a separate bowl, combine the chopped fresh figs, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and cinnamon (if you’re using it). Stir gently to coat the figs evenly and to help thicken the filling.
6. Assemble the Bars:
Spread the fig filling evenly over the crust. Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the fig mixture. This creates a delightful topping!
7. Bake the Bars:
Place the baking pan in your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the fig bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This is important because it helps them set up nicely. Enjoy your fresh fig bars as a sweet snack or dessert!
These fresh fig bars have a crisp, buttery crust paired with a luscious, naturally sweet fig filling—the perfect treat for any occasion!
FAQ for Easy Fresh Fig Bars with Sweet Filling
Can I Use Dried Figs Instead of Fresh Figs?
Yes, you can use dried figs! Simply soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes to soften, then chop them before using. While the flavor will be slightly different, it will still be a delicious filling!
How Should I Store Leftover Fig Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, where they’ll last for about a week. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature or warm them slightly before enjoying!
Can I Make These Bars Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free fig bars, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still be delightful!
How Do I Freeze Fig Bars?
To freeze, cut the cooled bars into squares and place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
