Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons

Homemade Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons are a delightful treat that blends the soft texture of the cookie with a sweet, fruity filling. Perfect for snacks, lunchboxes, or an afternoon treat, these fig newtons are sure to impress both kids and adults alike. With a simple recipe that takes less than an hour to prepare, you can enjoy fresh, gluten-free fig newtons any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip up these strawberry homemade fig newtons in under an hour, making them perfect for busy days.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with almond and cassava flour, these snacks are gluten-free and packed with flavor without compromising on health.
• Kid-Friendly: The sweet strawberry and fig filling makes this treat appealing to children, ensuring they’ll love every bite.
• Versatile Snack: These fig newtons can be enjoyed at any time—whether as a midday snack or a dessert after dinner.
• Make Ahead: Store them in an airtight container for up to a week; they taste great even after a few days!

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious strawberry homemade fig newtons, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Food processor
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes it easy to cream together butter and sugar quickly.
• Food processor: Ideal for blending the fruit into a smooth filling without lumps.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup when baking.

Ingredients

Homemade gluten-free fig newton cookies you can whip up in a flash! Each bar has a pillowy soft crust wrapped around a fruity strawberry and fig filling that even the kids will love! This healthy fig newton recipe is so easy, it can be made in under an hour!

Ingredients:
– 4 Tbsp butter (room-temperature) (sub. vegan butter)
– 2 Tbsp coconut sugar
– 1 egg (room temperature)
– 1 tsp vanilla
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup cassava flour
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp sea salt
– 1 cup strawberries (fresh)
– 1 cup figs
– 2 Tbsp lemon juice
– 1 Tbsp honey

How to Make Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

• In a bowl, add the room-temperature butter and coconut sugar.
• Use a stand mixer or hand mixer to beat until creamy.
• Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

• In another bowl, whisk together almond flour, cassava flour, baking soda, and sea salt.
• Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a large dough forms. Take care not to over mix.
• Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate while you prepare the filling.

Step 4: Cook the Filling

• Add washed strawberries and figs to a saucepan with lemon juice and honey.
• Heat over medium-low until the fruit begins to soften.
• Transfer this mixture to a food processor and pulse until it reaches a thick jam-like consistency. Set aside.

Step 5: Roll Out Dough

• Divide the dough in half. On floured parchment paper, roll out one half about ½ inch thick into a rectangular shape. Trim rough edges if needed.

Step 6: Assemble Bars

• Spoon half of your fruit filling onto one side of the dough rectangle just left of center.
• Using parchment paper as a guide, carefully roll one side over the filling. Repeat with the other side.
• Pinch ends to seal tightly. Cut into four bars.

Step 7: Bake

Place your bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 12–15 minutes or until golden brown. Repeat with remaining dough.

Step 8: Cool and Store

Allow your strawberry homemade fig newtons to cool before enjoying them. They can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week!

How to Serve Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons

Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons are deliciously versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want a simple snack or a delightful dessert, these fig newtons will impress everyone.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons with a cold glass of milk for a classic treat that balances the sweetness of the cookies.

As a Breakfast Option

• Enjoy them as a quick breakfast alongside yogurt and fresh fruit. This combination makes for an energizing start to your day.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warmth of the cookies melts the ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

At a Picnic

• These fig newtons make for an ideal picnic snack. They are easy to pack and provide a sweet touch to your outdoor feast.

Topped with Nut Butter

• Spread almond or peanut butter on top of each bar for added protein and flavor. This makes for a satisfying afternoon snack.

Drizzled with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey adds an extra layer of sweetness and complements the fruity filling beautifully.

How to Perfect Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons

Making perfect Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons is easier than you think! Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your butter and egg to sit out before baking. This helps create a smooth dough that binds well.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the dough ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Chill the Dough: Letting the dough chill in the fridge enhances its flavor and makes it easier to roll out.

• Cut Even Portions: Ensure all bars are cut evenly for uniform baking. This helps achieve consistent texture and doneness.

• Check Doneness: Keep an eye on your fig newtons while baking; they should be golden brown but not too dark, as that can affect their taste.

• Let Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool fully before serving or storing. This helps them set properly.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons

Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt: A creamy side that adds protein and balances sweetness, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

2. Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries complements the fruity filling nicely.

3. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast to the sweet cookies.

4. Nut Mix: A handful of mixed nuts provides crunch and healthy fats, making it an excellent pairing.

5. Fruit Salad: Toss together seasonal fruits for a refreshing side dish that enhances the fruity notes in the fig newtons.

6. Herbal Tea: Serve with chamomile or mint tea for a soothing drink option that pairs well with snacks like these fig newtons.

7. Granola: Sprinkle granola on top of yogurt served with your fig newtons for added texture and flavor.

8. Dark Chocolate: A few pieces of dark chocolate can satisfy any sweet tooth while complementing the flavors in these cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons, it’s easy to overlook a few details that can affect the final product. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft texture.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold butter and eggs can prevent the dough from coming together properly. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.

• Not Prepping the Fruit Properly: Failing to wash or chop the strawberries and figs can result in uneven filling. Always prepare your fruit to ensure a smooth filling.

• Skipping Parchment Paper: Baking directly on the sheet can cause sticking. Always use parchment paper for easy removal of your Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons.

• Ignoring Bake Time: Each oven is different, and ignoring bake time can lead to underbaked or overbaked cookies. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Airtight Container: Store your Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons in an airtight container.
• • Duration: They will last up to one week in the fridge.
• • Layering: If stacking, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons

• • Freezer-Safe Container: Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• • Duration: They can be frozen for up to three months.
• • Thawing: For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before eating.

Reheating Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5-7 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat individually on medium power for about 20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons:

Can I use other fruits besides strawberries and figs?

Yes! You can substitute with other fruits like peaches or blueberries, but adjust sweetness accordingly.

Are these fig newtons gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe uses almond flour and cassava flour, making them gluten-free.

How do I make the filling thicker?

If you prefer a thicker filling, cook the fruit mixture longer until it reduces more before blending.

Can I customize my Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons?

Certainly! Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor or mix in nuts for crunch.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Homemade Fig Newtons offer a delightful blend of fruity goodness wrapped in a soft crust. This recipe is not only quick and easy but also allows for various customization options. Try adding different fruits or spices to make it your own!