Fig Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with natural sweetness from fresh or dried figs. Wrapped in a buttery, tender cookie dough and filled with a spiced fig jam mixture, they’re reminiscent of classic fig bars but even more irresistible when homemade.
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🥚 Fig Cookies Ingredients
For the Fig Filling:
- 2 cups dried figs, stemmed and chopped
- ½ cup water or orange juice
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon milk (if needed for softening dough)

🍪 How To Make Fig Cookies
- Make the fig filling:
In a small saucepan, combine chopped figs, water (or juice), honey, lemon zest, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Bring to a simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until figs are soft and thickened.
Let cool, then blend into a smooth paste using a food processor. Set aside to cool completely. - Prepare the dough:
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Chill dough for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle. - Assemble the cookies:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about ¼ inch thick.
Spread the fig filling down the center in a narrow strip, then fold both sides of the dough over the filling.
Seal the edges and flip seam-side down. Slice into bars or squares. - Bake:
Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden. - Cool and serve:
Let cool on a rack, then enjoy warm or at room temperature.
💭 Recipe Tips
- Use dried figs: They give the best texture and natural sweetness.
- Soften the figs: Soak in hot water for 10 minutes before cooking if very dry.
- Add a nutty twist: Mix chopped walnuts or almonds into the filling.
- Make it festive: Add a splash of orange liqueur or sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
- Store well: These cookies stay soft for days and taste even better after resting overnight.
☕ What To Serve With Fig Cookies?
These cookies are perfect with coffee, black tea or spiced chai. They also make a lovely addition to cookie platters, holiday dessert tables or gift boxes. Pair them with cheese or wine for an elegant after-dinner treat.
🎚 How To Store Leftovers Fig Cookies?
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerate: Keep up to 10 days for extra freshness.
- Freeze: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
FAQs
Can I use fresh figs instead of dried?
Yes just cook them down longer to remove extra moisture until thick and jam-like.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can store it in the fridge for up to 5 days before baking.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes use vegan butter and maple syrup, and replace the egg with 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water.
Can I use store-bought fig jam?
Yes! If you’re short on time, high-quality fig jam makes a perfect shortcut filling.
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📊 Fig Cookies Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 2g
Fig Cookies Recipe
Description
These Fig Cookies feature a soft, buttery dough wrapped around a sweet, spiced fig filling. A homemade twist on classic fig bars — rich, chewy, and full of natural flavor.
Ingredients
For the Fig Filling:
For the Cookie Dough:
Instructions
- Make fig filling and let cool.
- Prepare and chill cookie dough.
- Assemble cookies with filling inside.
- Bake until golden and enjoy.
Notes
- Use dried figs: They give the best texture and natural sweetness.
Soften the figs: Soak in hot water for 10 minutes before cooking if very dry.
Add a nutty twist: Mix chopped walnuts or almonds into the filling.
Make it festive: Add a splash of orange liqueur or sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
Store well: These cookies stay soft for days and taste even better after resting overnight.
