Homemade Nutty Fig Delight Bars

Nutty Fig Bars Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a dessert that offers a delightful combination of nutty and fruity flavors, look no further than these homemade Nutty Fig Bars. Much better than store-bought alternatives, this recipe promises a delicious, wholesome treat that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of whole wheat flour, walnuts, pecans, and sweet fig filling creates a bar that’s not only tasty but also nutritious. Ideal for potlucks, weeknight desserts, or large gatherings, these bars will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients

This recipe incorporates a variety of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture of the Nutty Fig Bars. Here is a detailed list of the ingredients required:

• 3 cups whole wheat flour: Provides a hearty, wholesome base for the dough.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the dough rise slightly and become light.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Assists in leavening and improving texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the bars.
• 1/4 cup vegetable shortening: Adds moisture and a tender texture to the dough.
• 1/2 cup butter: Adds richness and flavor.
• 1 cup brown sugar: Provides sweetness and a slight molasses flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant, sweet aroma.
• 1 cup chopped walnuts: Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
• 1 cup chopped pecans: Complements the walnuts with a slightly different nutty taste.
• 1/2 pound dried figs, finely chopped: The star ingredient, offering a sweet and chewy filling.
• 3/4 cup brown sugar (for filling): Sweetens the fig mixture.
• 1/4 cup orange juice: Adds a bright, citrusy note to the filling.
• 1/4 cup water: Helps to cook the fig filling to the right consistency.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (for filling): Balances the sweetness of the filling.

Nutritional Information

These Nutty Fig Bars are not just delicious; they’re also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (24 servings total):

• Calories: 218.9 kcal
• Fat: 9.9 g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
• Cholesterol: 27.8 mg
• Sodium: 81.6 mg
• Carbohydrates: 31.2 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 18.2 g
• Protein: 3.7 g

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Sift the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, sift together 3 cups of whole wheat flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Set this mixture aside.

2. Cream the Fats and Sugar: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat 1/4 cup of vegetable shortening, 1/2 cup of butter, and 1 cup of brown sugar on high speed until well combined and creamy.

3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Reduce the mixer speed to low and add 2 large eggs, one at a time, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Once incorporated, increase the speed to high and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

4. Combine with Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating just until blended to avoid overmixing.

5. Incorporate the Nuts: Gently stir in 1 cup of chopped walnuts and 1 cup of chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

6. Chill the Dough: Turn the dough onto a sheet of plastic wrap, flatten it into a disc, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling the dough helps to make it easier to handle and roll out later.

Preparing the Fig Filling

1. Cook the Filling: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 pound of finely chopped dried figs, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of orange juice, 1/4 cup of water, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir occasionally as the mixture cooks.

2. Thicken the Mixture: Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil, approximately 10 minutes. Allow the filling to cool completely before using.

Assembling the Bars

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Divide the Dough: Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and divide it in half.

3. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out one half of the dough into a 13×9-inch rectangle and set it aside.

4. Prepare the Baking Pan: Press the remaining half of the dough evenly into the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking pan.

5. Add the Filling: Spread the cooled fig filling over the dough in the baking pan, ensuring an even layer.

6. Top with Rolled Dough: Gently place the rolled-out dough over the fig filling, pressing lightly to cover and seal the edges.

Baking and Serving

1. Bake the Bars: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake until the top is golden brown and the dough is cooked through, about 35-40 minutes.

2. Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares. This ensures that they set properly and are easier to handle.

Tips for Success

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 2 hours is crucial as it firms up the fats, making the dough easier to handle and roll out.
• Finely Chop the Figs: Using a food processor to chop the figs can save time and ensure a smoother filling.
• Cool the Filling: Make sure the fig filling is completely cooled before spreading it over the dough to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
• Uniform Rolling: Roll the dough evenly to ensure consistent thickness, which helps the bars bake uniformly.

Variations and Customizations

• Nut Variations: Feel free to experiment with different nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Spice it Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spicy twist.
• Citrus Zest: Incorporate some lemon or orange zest into the fig filling for an extra citrusy kick.

Serving Suggestions

These Nutty Fig Bars are perfect for a variety of occasions:

• Dessert: Serve them as a delightful end to a meal with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Snack: Enjoy them as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee.
• Potlucks and Parties: These bars are easy to transport and serve, making them an excellent choice for potlucks and gatherings.

Storage

• Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: To extend their shelf life, freeze the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Nutty Fig Bars are a delightful treat that combines the wholesome goodness of nuts with the sweet, chewy texture of figs. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to enjoy as a daily snack, this recipe ensures a delicious outcome every time. With a little bit of preparation and attention to detail, you can create a homemade dessert that’s far superior to any store-bought version. Enjoy the process and the delightful flavors that these bars have to offer!