Nutty Fig & Date Delight Bars
These Nutty Fig & Date Delight Bars are a wholesome treat that harness the natural sweetness of dates, raisins, and figs. With a delectable blend of flavors reminiscent of classic Fig Newtons, these bars are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Made with a rich three-legume butter or creamy almond butter, each bite reveals a symphony of sweet and nutty flavors. Perfect for a quick snack or a fulfilling breakfast option, these bars are gluten-free and refined sugar-free, making them a guilt-free indulgence any time of day!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Raisins
2 5/8 ounces (Soaked in boiling water)
Chopped figs
4 ounces (Soaked in boiling water)
Dates
2 1/2 ounces (Pitted)
Three-legume butter or almond butter
9 1/2 ounces (N/A)
Vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (N/A)
Ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon (N/A)
Sea salt
1 pinch (N/A)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, combine the raisins and chopped figs.
2
Pour boiling water over the fruits, ensuring they are fully submerged. Allow them to stand for 10 minutes to soften.
3
After 10 minutes, drain the fruits well while pressing out any excess liquid.
4
In a food processor, combine the soaked raisins and figs with the dates, three-legume butter (or almond butter), vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt.
5
Process the mixture until it forms a thick, dough-like paste. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is well combined.
6
Line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper for easy removal. Transfer the mixture to the pan and press it down evenly with your hands or a spatula until it's compact.
7
Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, or until firm. Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into 9 equal pieces.
8
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Nutty Fig & Date Delight Bars?
Nutty Fig & Date Delight Bars are a wholesome, no-bake snack made from a blend of dried fruits and nut or legume butter, offering a flavor profile similar to classic Fig Newtons.
Are these bars gluten-free?
Yes, these bars are naturally gluten-free as they are made with fruit, nut butter, and spices.
Is there any refined sugar in this recipe?
No, these bars are refined sugar-free, relying entirely on the natural sweetness of dates, raisins, and figs.
How many ingredients do I need?
This recipe requires 7 main ingredients: raisins, chopped figs, dates, nut or legume butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sea salt.
What type of nut butter can I use?
You can use either creamy almond butter or a three-legume butter depending on your preference.
Why do the raisins and figs need to be soaked?
Soaking the dried fruit in boiling water softens them, making it easier to process them into a smooth, dough-like paste.
How long should I soak the dried fruit?
The raisins and figs should stand in boiling water for approximately 10 minutes to reach the desired softness.
Do I need to drain the fruit after soaking?
Yes, you must drain the fruits well and press out any excess liquid before adding them to the food processor.
What equipment is necessary to make these bars?
You will need a food processor to blend the ingredients, a medium bowl for soaking, and a 9-inch square pan for setting the bars.
How do I ensure the bars don't stick to the pan?
Line your 9-inch square pan with parchment paper before transferring the mixture into it for easy removal.
How long does the mixture need to refrigerate?
The mixture should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours, or until it is firm enough to be cut.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
When prepared in a 9-inch pan, the recipe is designed to be cut into 9 equal-sized bars.
How should I store these bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can I freeze Nutty Fig & Date Delight Bars?
Yes, these bars can be frozen for longer storage if you do not plan to eat them within a week.
Are these bars suitable for a lunch box snack?
Absolutely, they are a great, healthy option for lunch boxes as they are compact and satisfying.
Can I make these without a food processor?
It is difficult because the ingredients need to be processed into a thick, uniform paste; a high-powered blender might work as an alternative.
What is the texture of these bars?
The bars have a thick, chewy, and dough-like texture similar to the filling of a fruit bar.
Do I need to pit the dates?
Yes, ensure the dates are pitted before adding them to the food processor to avoid damaging the blades and to ensure a smooth texture.
Can I use different spices?
While cinnamon is recommended, you could experiment with nutmeg or cardamom for different flavor profiles.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe uses only plant-based ingredients and is suitable for a vegan diet.
What if my mixture is too crumbly?
If the mixture doesn't hold together, you may need to add a small amount of extra nut butter or process it slightly longer to release the natural oils.
Can I use fresh figs instead of dried?
This recipe is specifically designed for dried figs; fresh figs have too much moisture and will prevent the bars from setting correctly.
Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
Yes, you can add a scoop of protein powder, but you may need to increase the amount of nut butter to maintain the correct consistency.
Is the sea salt necessary?
A pinch of sea salt helps to balance the sweetness of the dried fruits, though it can be omitted if you are monitoring sodium intake.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger pan or two 9-inch pans to make a larger batch.
How much cinnamon should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
What is the weight of the figs needed?
You will need 4 ounces of chopped dried figs for this recipe.
Are these bars high in fiber?
Yes, because they are made with whole dried fruits like figs and dates, they are naturally high in dietary fiber.
Can children help make these?
Yes, this is a great kid-friendly recipe as it requires no baking, though an adult should handle the food processor and boiling water.
How do I cut the bars cleanly?
For the cleanest cuts, ensure the mixture is fully chilled and firm, then use a sharp knife wiped with a bit of oil or warm water.