These Healthy Vegan Fig Bars are perfect for snacking without any guilt! Made with wholesome ingredients like oats, figs, and nut butter, they’re naturally sweet and satisfying.
I love how easy these bars are to make! Just mix, press, and bake—it’s that simple. They’re great for quick bites or as a sweet treat anytime, without the fuss! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dried Figs: Figs add natural sweetness and a chewy texture. If figs aren’t available, try using dates or prunes as a substitute for a similar flavor profile.
Rolled Oats: I love using rolled oats here for their heartiness. If you need a gluten-free option, just make sure to get certified gluten-free oats!
Almond Butter: Almond butter gives a nice creaminess. You can swap it for peanut butter, sunflower seed butter, or even tahini if you have nut allergies.
Maple Syrup: Maple syrup provides natural sweetness, but agave nectar or apple juice can work just as well! Just adjust to your taste preference.
How Do I Make Sure My Fig Bars Turn Out Perfectly?
Making fig bars may seem tricky, but the key is to ensure all components are mixed well and pressed firmly. Here’s how to nail it:
- Simmer figs with water to soften them – this helps them break down into a paste easily.
- Mix dry and wet ingredients thoroughly before folding in the fig paste; this ensures even distribution of flavors.
- Press the layers firmly in the pan. This helps the bars hold together well once baked.
- Allow these bars to cool completely before lifting them out. It helps them set nicely!
By following these steps, you’re on your way to making deliciously chewy and satisfying vegan fig bars! Enjoy them as a snack or a quick breakfast on the go!
Healthy Vegan Fig Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 ½ cups dried figs, stems removed and chopped
- ½ cup water
For the Base and Topping:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (or gluten-free flour for GF option)
- ½ cup almond butter (or any nut/seed butter)
- ⅓ cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake. Make sure to allow your fig bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting—they’re best enjoyed once they’ve set, giving them a chewy and firm texture. Total time is roughly 1 hour, including cooling time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang so you can easily lift the bars out after baking.
2. Cook the Figs:
In a small saucepan, combine the chopped figs and water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the figs become soft and absorb most of the water. Once soft, use a fork or a blender to mash them into a thick paste. Set it aside to cool.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined. This is the base for your bars!
4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
Add in the almond butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until everything is crumbly but well combined. It may take a little muscle, but you’ll get there!
5. Fold in the Fig Paste:
Now gently fold the cooled fig paste into your oat mixture. Make sure it’s evenly distributed so every bite is delicious.
6. Assemble the Bars:
Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the base layer. Spread the fig paste evenly over this layer, ensuring it covers the base fully.
7. Top and Bake:
Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the fig layer, pressing down gently to secure everything together. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
8. Cool and Cut:
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely. This is super important for the bars to set. After cooling, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut them into squares or rectangles as desired.
9. Store and Enjoy!
Your Healthy Vegan Fig Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerated for longer freshness. Enjoy these tasty snacks anytime you need a quick, wholesome treat!
FAQ for Healthy Vegan Fig Bars
Can I Use Other Dried Fruits in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If figs aren’t your favorite, you can substitute them with dried dates, apricots, or prunes. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness level if necessary, as different fruits have varying sweetness.
Can I Make These Fig Bars Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the whole wheat flour, and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free. This will make your fig bars perfect for gluten-sensitive friends!
How Do I Store Leftover Fig Bars?
Store any leftover fig bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge where they can last for up to 2 weeks!
Can I Freeze These Fig Bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well! Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying!
