Fig Bars

Fig bars are a quick and easy treat that showcases the natural sweetness and soft, chewy texture of dried figs. This homemade version offers a healthy twist on classic recipes, providing a nutrient-dense treat whenever a dessert craving arises. Plus, they’re made with just 4 ingredients!

Watch our quick video to find out how to make these homemade fig bars step-by-step!

How to make fig bars

1. PREPARE THE DISH: Line an 8 x 8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, making sure to overhang on the sides. NOTE: Preferably, soak figs in warm water for 10 minutes, and then drain the water. It will hydrate them just enough to process in the food processor faster.

2. MAKE THE FIG BARS: In a food processor, process the figs with the seeds until they turn into a thick paste. You may have to stop your food processor more than once to scoop down the fig paste.

3. Transfer the fig paste to the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly across the bottom of the dish using wet hands.

4. Then, spread the tahini on top using the back of a spoon or spatula.

5. Distribute the walnuts on top! Freeze for at least 3 hours or overnight.

6. Remove the fig bar from the freezer, pull it out of the pan by holding the overhung parchment paper on the sides, and cut it into 24 bars.

7. Transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and drizzle the melted chocolate on top. It is fine if doesn’t cover the top fully!

8. TO MELT THE CHOCOLATE: Melt the chocolate according to the instructions on the package, or place them into a microwave-safe bowl and heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

9. Freeze the healthy fig bars again, this time for just 30 minutes or until the chocolate has set. Enjoy!

FAqs

Are fig bars healthy?

Yes, especially when homemade, fig bars are rich in fiber, essential minerals, and other nutrients from ingredients like figs, chia seeds, tahini, and walnuts.

What do fig bars do for your body?

Fig bars provide essential nutrients and fiber that promote digestive health, offer sustained energy, and support overall wellness.

What are fig bars made of?

Traditional fig bars are made of a jammy fig filling surrounded by a soft dough, made from oatmeal and flour. However, this recipe includes dried figs, chia seeds, tahini, walnuts, and chocolate chips for increased nutritional value.

Are fig bars considered processed food?

While store-bought fig bars can be considered processed due to additives and preservatives, homemade fig bars are made with natural ingredients, minimizing processing.

Can I use fresh figs for this recipe?

While you can typically replace dried figs with fresh ones in other baked recipes, this recipe is not baked. With this in mind, the higher water content in fresh figs will make it hard to achieve the right texture once chilled.

Where can I find dried figs?

Dried figs can typically be found in the dried fruit section of most grocery stores, bulk food stores, or specialty health food stores. In addition, you can purchase them online from many retailers or bulk food suppliers.

Can I use store-bought fig jam?

No! Stick to dried figs for the best texture. Even if you try to use fig jam or preserves, you'd need to increase the seeds and other binding agents greatly to help the bars stick together yet you may not achieve the best texture.

Why you'll love these homemade fig bars

• Naturally sweet: There are no added sugars in these fig bars, meaning the fig's natural sweetness can shine through.
• Versatile: Homemade fig bars are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a healthy dessert.
• Gluten-free: This healthy fig bars recipe is great for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone seeking a wholesome treat. It can also be vegan if you use vegan chocolate! They are also Mediterranean-inspired because their ingredients are common in that cuisine.
• Easy to prepare: You can expect simple ingredients, a straightforward preparation process, and outstanding results. You only need 15 minutes to prep them. Most of the time required is spent in chilling this treat.

What are gluten-free fig bars?

Gluten-free fig bars are a healthy and nutritious snack crafted without any gluten-containing ingredients.

Unlike many traditional fig bar recipes that contain flour in the base and topping, this recipe is made with just dried figs, tahini, nuts, seeds (optional), and dark chocolate.

It offers all the same delicious flavors of traditional fig bars, just without the gluten!

These gluten-free fig bars are an excellent choice for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone looking for a healthful twist on a classic treat.

Fig bars recipe

I’ve always been a fan of store-bought fig bars that have a smooth, soft, and thin crust.

There’s something about the sweet, jammy inside that just works! However, these bars can contain a sneaky amount of added sugars and other unhealthy ingredients.

That’s why today’s fig bar recipe is a little different than traditional options on the market.

These homemade fig bars only require 4 simple ingredients, they’re gluten-free, and they couldn’t be easier to make. Plus, they’re cheaper and healthier than the ones you can buy in the store!

All you have to do is make the fig paste, top it with tahini and walnuts, and let it chill.

Once it’s done, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a healthy yet indulgent treat.

Ingredients and substitutions

To make our fig bars recipe, you will need 4 ingredients (and a couple more only if you want to add more fiber to your treat but these other 2 are optional) as follows:

• 2 lbs Mission dried figs (replace with any variety of dried figs or even dates).
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds, optional (Or, replace chia seeds with hemp hearts or sesame seeds).
• 1 tablespoon ground flax meal, optional (Alternatively, you can use ground chia seeds).
• ½ cup tahini (Sunflower seed butter, pumpkin seed butter, or even cashew or almond butter will all work. My favorite is 'No Added Sugar' Creamy Peanut Butter though!)
• 1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped (Or, try pecans, almonds, macadamia nuts, cashews, peanuts, etc)
• 1 cup chocolate chips (Use your favorite type of chocolate and brand but I used dark chocolate because it is healthier but semisweet chocolate is another great option. Unless you have a very sweet tooth, I'd avoid milk chocolate because the dried figs are already quite sweet).

Useful tips for making the best fig bars

• Ensure your dried figs are fresh (not old) since this greatly affects the overall sweetness and texture of the final fig bars.
• When blending the ingredients, aim for a mostly smooth texture with bite. You don’t want it to be too mushy.
• Press the mixture firmly into the pan!
• Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best fig bars texture and flavor.
• Make sure to let the fig treat chill enough to set before slicing! Otherwise, it will fall apart!
• If the mixture feels too dry, consider adding a touch of water until it sticks together more easily.
• Toasting the walnuts beforehand can amplify their flavor to better complement the sweetness of the figs.
• Adding chia seeds or flaxseed meal is optional but it'll provide a rich fiber treat!
• When slicing, use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Ensure you wipe the blade between each slice.

Variations

• Fig Newton style: Make an outer coating with almond or oat flour, coconut oil, and salt. Press half of this into the pan before the fig paste filling, then top the filling with the rest of the coating.
• Oatmeal fig bars: Create a base with butter or coconut oil, sweetener, vanilla, and flour. Make a crumbly topping (streusel-like) with flour, oats, butter, and sweetener for added texture and a hearty flavor.
• Nut-free: Omit the walnuts or replace them with pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, or hemp hearts.
• Double chocolate: Add cocoa powder to the fig paste for a deeper chocolate flavor.
• Tropical: Mix in some shredded coconut for sweetness and a tropical taste.
• Zesty: Incorporate some orange or lemon zest into the fig paste for a vibrant citrusy element.
• Spiced: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, fall-inspired flavor profile.
• Coffee: Integrate finely ground coffee or espresso powder into the paste for a little kick.

What to serve with this fig dessert

For a more decadent and indulgent fig dessert, try pairing yours with some of these options:

• Whipped cream: Try regular or dairy-free coconut milk whipped cream.
• Fresh fruit: Such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or sliced bananas.
• Yogurt: Greek or plant-based versions work perfectly. I prefer mine with a dollop of sugar-free protein coconut yogurt.
• Honey or maple drizzle: To add a touch of extra sweetness.
• Ice cream: Crumble the bars on top of vanilla or chocolate ice cream or frozen yogurt.

HOW TO STORE

• Fridge: Store fig bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days just like this date bark.
• Freezer: You can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge.

More sweet bars to enjoy

• Apple bars recipe
• Protein bars
• Healthy energy bars
• Banana pudding bars
• Gingerbread cookie bars
• Chocolate cookie bars
• Coconut bars
• Cherry bars recipe
• Coconut apricot bars
• Homemade crunch bars

PIN AND ENJOY!