Fig Crumble Bars

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 1 lb. loaf pan, or fit with a sheet of parchment paper.

Step 2

Place the walnuts and 1 tablespoon of sugar in a small ziplock bag, zip the bag shut, then crush with a rolling pin until you get fine crumbs. Temporarily set aside.

Step 3

In the bowl of a stand mixer or food processor, combine the remaining 1/8 cup of sugar, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder together. Add the butter and mix until you get pea-size clumps.

Step 4

Add in the egg yolk and vanilla extract, and mix just until everything is combined. You won't get a compact dough - this is OK.

Step 5

Pat 2/3 of the dough into the prepared loaf pan, creating a smooth, even base. Bake in the oven for approximately 25 to 30 minutes, until the edges are golden and the center is still tender to the touch.

Step 6

While the crust is baking, make the fig filling. Heat the chopped figs and sugar in a large, non-reactive skillet. Give the mixture a stir every now and then, and more frequently toward the end of the cooking process. Cook the figs until they're thick and completely softened - about 20 minutes.

Step 7

Spread the fig filling over the prepared crust. Take the reserved walnut crumbs and combine them with the remaining pastry dough. Sprinkle the crumble topping over the filling layer.

Step 8

Bake the bars for another 25 to 30 minutes, until the crumble is golden. Let the bars rest in the loaf pan until they're completely cool. Use a sharp knife to make 12 bars.