These Healthy Skinny Figgy Bars are a tasty treat that’s good for you! Made with wholesome ingredients like figs, oats, and a touch of honey, they are sweet and chewy.
They’re perfect for a snack or dessert, and easy to make! I love keeping a batch in my pantry for a quick energy boost, plus they’re great for sharing—if you want to! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dried Figs: These are the star of the recipe! Dried figs bring natural sweetness and a chewy texture. If figs are hard to find, you can use dates as they offer a similar flavor and consistency.
Rolled Oats: I prefer whole rolled oats for added texture. If you’re gluten-free, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats or switch to ground almonds for a flour alternative.
Almond Flour: This adds moisture and a lightness to the bars. If you don’t have almond flour, whole wheat flour works well, and it gives a heartier flavor.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both work beautifully here! Honey creates a lovely sweetness, while maple syrup gives a nice depth of flavor. You can even use agave syrup or brown rice syrup for a vegan option.
How Can I Make Sure the Mixture Holds Together?
The key to getting your figgy bars to stick properly is ensuring the mixture is cohesive. When mixing the ingredients, make sure they’re well combined so they can hold together when baked. If you find the mixture too dry, you can add the extra water little by little until it’s slightly sticky but not soupy.
- Mix all dry ingredients first to distribute flavors before adding wet ones.
- When pressing the mixture, use the back of a spatula or your hands to compress it firmly into the pan, which helps with binding when baking.
- Allow bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape better.
How to Make Healthy Skinny Figgy Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup dried figs, chopped
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup almond flour or whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup honey or pure maple syrup
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp water (if needed)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for baking. Add another 20 minutes for cooling, so in total, plan for around 50 minutes to enjoy these healthy treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is essential for getting those lovely golden edges on your figgy bars! While the oven is heating, line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper so your bars won’t stick.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped dried figs, rolled oats, and almond flour (or whole wheat flour). This is the base of your bars!
3. Add the Flavors:
Next, stir in the cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and the optional chia seeds. They add a nice touch of nutrition! Mix everything well so it’s evenly distributed.
4. Incorporate the Wet Ingredients:
Pour in the honey (or maple syrup) and the vanilla extract into the dry mixture. Stir well until everything is combined into a sticky mixture. If it feels too dry, add water a little at a time until it holds together but is not soupy.
5. Press into the Pan:
Now, transfer the mixture to your prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spatula or your hands to press the mixture down firmly and spread it out evenly. It’s important to really pack it down so they hold their shape!
6. Bake Your Bars:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown color around the edges. This step will make your bars nice and firm!
7. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Cooling is important! After they have cooled, use the edges of the parchment paper to lift them out and cut them into bars or squares.
8. Store and Enjoy:
Store your figgy bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness. Enjoy your healthy, delicious Skinny Figgy Bars as a perfect snack or dessert!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Healthy Skinny Figgy Bars
Can I Use Different Dried Fruits?
Absolutely! While figs are delicious, you can substitute them with other dried fruits like dates, apricots, or raisins. Just keep in mind that different fruits will slightly alter the flavor and texture of the bars.
How Can I Make These Bars Vegan?
To make these bars vegan, simply replace honey with pure maple syrup or agave syrup. Both alternatives will maintain the sweetness and consistency of the bars while keeping them plant-based!
Can I Freeze the Figgy Bars?
Yes, these bars freeze beautifully! After cutting them, store them in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying!
What Can I Use Instead of Chia Seeds?
If you don’t have chia seeds, you can omit them, or substitute with flaxseeds in the same quantity. Both add fiber and a bit of nutrition, but you can still make great bars without them!