These Easy Skinny Figgy Bars are a tasty treat that’s perfect for a healthy snack! Made with sweet figs and oats, they’re chewy, wholesome, and oh so satisfying.
When I’m craving something sweet but want to stay on track, these bars come to the rescue! Plus, they’re super simple to whip up—just mix, bake, and enjoy with your favorite tea!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dried Figs: They bring natural sweetness and chewiness to the bars. If figs are hard to find, you can substitute with dates or raisins for a similar texture and flavor.
Rolled Oats: A key for chewiness. Quick oats can work in a pinch, but they’re softer. I prefer rolled oats for a nice bite. For a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats.
Whole Wheat Flour: This adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber. If you want a lighter version, you can use all-purpose flour or keep it gluten-free by using almond flour or a gluten-free blend.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Either sweetener gives a lovely sweetness. I usually reach for maple syrup for its flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie sweetener, consider using stevia or agave syrup instead.
How Do I Get the Best Texture for My Figgy Bars?
The key to perfect figgy bars is balancing moisture and structure. When simmering figs, ensuring they break down creates a nice blend with your dry ingredients.
- Simmer the figs until soft and mash them for a smoother consistency.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients gently, as over-mixing can lead to tough bars.
- Be sure to let them cool completely before slicing to maintain their shape.
Easy Skinny Figgy Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup dried figs, chopped
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour)
- 1/4 cup honey or pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or almonds)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to bake. Including cooling time, plan for about 1 hour total before you can enjoy your delicious bars!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure your bars bake evenly. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Fig Mixture
In a small saucepan, combine the chopped dried figs and water. Bring this to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook the figs until they soften and most of the water is absorbed, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and mash the figs slightly with a fork or blend them briefly for a smoother texture.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir them together well to ensure an even distribution of dry ingredients.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the honey (or maple syrup), unsweetened applesauce, and vanilla extract to the fig mixture. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet fig mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until they are just combined. If you’re using nuts, fold them in carefully at this stage to avoid overmixing.
6. Bake the Bars
Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Store
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely before cutting the bars. This helps them hold their shape better. You can store the finished Skinny Figgy Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Enjoy your healthy, chewy, and delicious Skinny Figgy Bars!
What Can I Use Instead of Dried Figs?
If dried figs aren’t available, you can substitute them with dried dates, raisins, or even prunes. Just chop them up similarly to ensure they mix well into the bars.
Can I Make These Bars Vegan?
Absolutely! To make these bars vegan, simply replace honey with maple syrup or agave syrup, and ensure that your applesauce is unsweetened. This way, you can enjoy a delicious plant-based snack!
How Do I Store Leftover Skinny Figgy Bars?
Leftover bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator, where they can last about a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months for a quick snack later!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to customize your bars by adding ingredients like chocolate chips, seeds (like chia or flaxseeds), or other dried fruits (like cranberries or apricots) for extra flavor and nutrition.
