Fig Newton “Sarah – Bars”

I remember being a kid, and my grandmother always had a stash of Fig Newtons hidden away in her pantry. They were a special treat, a soft, chewy oasis in a world of crunchy cookies and overly sweet candies. While I loved the original, these homemade “Sarah – Bars” capture the essence of that comforting flavor, but with an even deeper, richer, and naturally wholesome character. They’re a grown-up version of a childhood favorite, and I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (chilling only)
• Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
• Servings: 9
• Yield: 9 bars
• Dietary Type: Vegan

Ingredients

• 2 5/8 ounces raisins
• 4 ounces chopped figs
• Boiling water
• 2 1/2 ounces dates
• 9 1/2 ounces three-legume butter (Recipe #474365) or 9 1/2 ounces almond butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 pinch sea salt

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Food processor
• 9-inch square pan
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Begin by combining the raisins and chopped figs in a mixing bowl.
2. Pour boiling water over the raisins and figs to cover them completely. Let this mixture stand for 10 minutes, allowing the dried fruits to soften and plump up.
3. After 10 minutes, drain the raisins and figs thoroughly, pressing out any residual liquid. It’s important to remove as much water as possible to prevent the bars from becoming too soft.
4. Transfer the drained raisins and figs to a food processor. Add the dates, three-legume butter (or almond butter), vanilla, cinnamon, and sea salt.
5. Puree the mixture in the food processor until a thick, doughy paste forms. You may need to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is evenly processed. The final texture should be smooth enough to press easily into a pan.
6. Line a 9-inch square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal. This makes it easier to lift the bars out once they’re chilled.
7. Press the fig-date paste evenly into the prepared pan. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to create a smooth, compact surface.
8. Chill the pan in the refrigerator until the bars are firm, about 30-60 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the bars to solidify, making them easier to cut.
9. Once chilled and firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place them on a cutting board and cut into 9 equal-sized bars.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For a more intense fig flavor, consider using dried black mission figs. These have a richer, almost jam-like quality.
• If you find the dough too sticky to work with, try chilling it for a few minutes before pressing it into the pan.
• Toasting the almond butter or three-legume butter before adding it to the food processor can enhance the nutty flavor of the bars. Spread it on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
• If you don’t have a 9-inch square pan, you can use any similar-sized baking dish. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
• For a smoother texture, soak the dates in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the food processor. This will soften them and make them easier to blend.
• A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the bars before chilling can add a delightful contrast to the sweetness.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these Fig Newton “Sarah – Bars” chilled or at room temperature. They make a perfect afternoon snack, a healthy dessert, or a portable energy boost.

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to a month. Thaw frozen bars in the refrigerator before serving. They can also be enjoyed straight from the freezer for a slightly firmer texture.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	274.4 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	219 g	80%
Total Fat	24.4 g	37%
Saturated Fat	15.4 g	76%
Cholesterol	64.3 mg	21%
Sodium	279.6 mg	11%
Total Carbohydrate	15.6 g	5%
Dietary Fiber	1.4 g	5%
Sugars	12.4 g	49%
Protein	0.8 g	1%

Note: These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Variations & Substitutions

• Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed butter or tahini in place of the almond butter or three-legume butter.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger, nutmeg, or cardamom to the mixture for a warmer, more complex flavor profile.
• Chocolate Chip Addition: Stir in 1/4 cup of mini dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
• Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to brighten the flavors.
• Different Dried Fruits: Experiment with other dried fruits like apricots, cranberries, or cherries.
• Gluten-Free Option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
• Sweetener adjustment: If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider adding 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup or agave nectar to the mixture.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of nut butter?
A: Yes, you can substitute any nut butter you prefer, such as peanut butter, cashew butter, or hazelnut butter. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.

Q: My dough is too dry. What should I do?
A: Add a tablespoon or two of water or non-dairy milk to the food processor and blend until the dough reaches the desired consistency.

Q: How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
A: Lining the pan with parchment paper is the best way to prevent sticking. Make sure the parchment paper overhangs the sides of the pan for easy removal.

Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Q: Are these bars suitable for children?
A: Yes, these bars are a healthy and delicious snack option for children, as they are naturally sweetened and packed with nutrients. However, be mindful of any allergies.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy creating and savoring these Fig Newton “Sarah – Bars”! They are a delightful and wholesome treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with different variations and substitutions to find your perfect combination. Don’t hesitate to share your feedback and let me know how they turned out. Consider pairing them with a cup of herbal tea or a glass of almond milk for a complete and satisfying snack. Happy baking!