Fig cookies at home are a softer, denser version of the ones from the package, with a spiced fig paste inside. I cook the figs down so the filling is thick enough to stay put.
This Italian Fig Cookies Recipe is easy to follow, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced bakers. They are perfect for holidays or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Authentic Italian Fig Cookies
These fig cookies are made with a dough infused with citrus zest and a filling of dried figs, nuts, and warm spices. The recipe yields about 24 cookies and takes approximately 2 hours from start to finish, including chilling time for the dough.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried figs, chopped
- 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 egg yolk for egg wash
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine chopped figs, walnuts, raisins, cinnamon, nutmeg, honey, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the mixture is warm. Let it cool completely.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add to the butter mixture until a dough forms, then wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Assemble the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into rectangles and place about a teaspoon of fig filling in the center of each rectangle. Fold over and crimp the edges to seal.
- Bake: Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with egg yolk for a glossy finish. Bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 2 hours
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Calories: 120kcal (per cookie)
- Fat: 6g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
Cool them before slicing so the swirl holds together.
