Got leftovers? We've got recipes. 18 delicious recipes using cooked chicken (plus 9 bonus recipes!)
Fig Newtons
- add review
- #19641
The cookie has a mild, sweet flavor that complements the rich, fruity taste of the fig filling, which is dense and sticky with a complex flavor.
serves/makes:
ready in:
1-2 hrs
1-2 hrs
2 reviews
ingredients
Fig Filling
1 cup mashed figs
3/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons water
Fig Newton Cookie
1/2 cup butter or shortening
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, or more
1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
directions
Prepare the fig filling by combining the mashed figs, sugar, and water in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until very thick (like thick jam) and smooth. Remove the pan from the heat and let cool completely.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Combine the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl and beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until well creamed.
With the mixer running, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Add the milk, vanilla, nutmeg and mix until combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Combine one cup of flour with the baking powder and salt. With the mixer running slowly add the flour mixture, beating on medium speed until incorporated. Add the flour in 1 cup increments until the dough is the right consistency (it should hold together without being overly dry or overly sticky).
Divide the dough into 2 pieces. Roll each piece between two sheets of waxed paper into a 10x6-inch rectangle. Cut each piece of dough lengthwise so they are 10x3-inches.
Spoon fig jam down the lower third of each strip of dough, leaving a border so the dough can be sealed. Fold the dough over, covering the fig filling. Press the edges to seal.
Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 1 to 1 1/2 inch pieces. Place the fig newtons on a baking sheet.
Bake at 350 degrees F for 20 minutes or until the cookie is set and the edges are just starting to turn light golden brown.
Remove the fig newtons from the oven and let cool on a wire rack. Store in an airtight container.
recipe tips
Make sure the fig filling is completely cooled before using it in the cookie dough to prevent the dough from becoming too soft.
For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or cloves to the fig filling.
If the dough becomes too soft to work with, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to firm up.
Try different fruit fillings like strawberry, raspberry, or apricot for variation in flavor.
To prevent sticking, use waxed paper to roll out the dough instead of flouring the work surface.
Sprinkle the tops of the fig newtons with powdered sugar before baking for a sweeter cookie.
To prevent the fig newtons from becoming too hard, store them with a slice of bread to help retain moisture.
For a softer cookie, bake the fig newtons for slightly less time, keeping an eye on the edges for browning.
common recipe questions
What is the texture of the fig filling supposed to be?
The fig filling should be thick, similar to jam, and smooth (mostly) in texture.
How do I mash the figs?
Choose ripe figs. Trim the stem end then cut the figs into quarters. Process in a food processor until mashed. If the skin of the fig seems tough you can peel it before mashing the figs.
How thick should I roll out the dough for the fig newtons?
Roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch which should form a 10x6-inch rectangle.
Can I refrigerate the dough before baking?
You can refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to an hour to make it easier to handle and roll out.
What can I do if the dough is too dry or too sticky?
Adjust the consistency of the dough by adding more flour if it's too sticky, or a little bit of milk if it's too dry.
How should I store the fig newtons?
Store the fig newtons in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week for best freshness.
Can I freeze the fig newtons?
You can freeze the fig newtons in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
tools needed
Rolling Pin: To roll out the cookie dough into thin, even rectangles.
Waxed Paper: For preventing the cookie dough from sticking to surfaces while rolling it out.
Saucepan: Required to cook the fig filling until thick and jam-like in consistency.
Electric Mixer: For creaming the butter and sugar, as well as mixing the other ingredients to create the cookie dough.
Sharp Knife: For cutting the rolled-out dough into smaller individual fig newton pieces before baking.
Baking Sheet: To place the fig newtons on before baking in the oven.
Wire Rack: To cool the fig newtons after baking, allowing air to circulate around them and prevent them from becoming soggy.
what goes with it?
Vanilla Ice Cream: Crumble some fig newtons on top of 2 scoops of some creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful mix of textures.
Soft cheeses: the creamy texture of brie or Camembert contrasts nicely with the chewiness of the fig newtons.
beverage pairings
Wine Pairings
Port: A Port's sweet and nutty flavors will harmonize with the dense, sticky complexity of the fig filling.
Zinfandel: An opulent Zinfandel, packed with bold fruit flavors, will stand up to the rich sweetness of the fig newtons. The wine's hints of spice will add an interesting contrast to the cookie's mild sweetness.
Riesling: If you lean more towards white wine, a slightly sweet Riesling could be a delightful partner for these fig newtons. Look for one with a balanced sweetness to complement the rich fig filling without overpowering it.
Other Alcohol Pairings
Cognac: Go for the high life with a glass of Cognac. The rich, deep flavors in this luxurious drink will bring the fig newtons to a whole new level of decadence.
Scotch: If you're feeling especially sophisticated, a peaty Scotch whisky can provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the fig newtons. The whisky's complexity will play off the cookie's multifaceted flavors.
Amaretto: The almond notes in Amaretto can complement the nuttiness of the fig newtons, while the liqueur's sweetness can enhance the overall richness of the dessert.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Black Tea: Keep it classic with a cup of black tea. Its deep, rich flavors will complement the fig filling, making for a comforting and cozy pairing.
Cold Milk: You can't get much more of a classic pairing than cookies and milk. Serve up a cold glass of your favorite - dairy or non-dairy - milk to dunk your cookies in.
Hot Apple Cider: The fruity tartness of the cider will balance the sweetness of the fig newtons, creating a delicious pairing.
nutrition data
226 calories, 6 grams fat, 40 grams carbohydrates, 3 grams protein per serving.
Make your mornings a little less hectic with these overnight breakfast recipes. Prep the night before and enjoy a warm, comforting meal in the morning.
This iconic whiskey is a "Jack of all trades" when it comes to cooking. Toss it in some pasta, as a savory dipping sauce, and even bake it into something sweet.
reviews & comments
December 7, 2013
I've been in love with fig newtons since I was a kid and have tried a variety of recipes. This one turned out beautifully! It's quite easy to make too. I find these will keep for a good while but also freeze well (flash freeze them then put in airtight bags).
December 3, 2009
Thank you for sharing your Fig Newton, Recipe . I'm American and redising in Turkey, where Figs is very plentlyful and other freash or dried fruits and grapes, It occured to me there must be a way to use this healthy natural food instad of throwing it away due to spoliage wihc is very quick here because everything is fresh and no preseravities added , Thanks again