Homemade Fig Bars

Step 1

Make the fresh fig filling. Combine figs, brown sugar, lemon zest, salt, and vanilla extract in a medium heavy-bottom saucepan. Heat over medium heat until the figs release their juices and the juices come to a slow boil. Turn down the heat and simmer for 45 minutes, occasionally stirring and breaking up larger pieces with the back of a wooden spoon. Remove the filling from the heat and cool. For a smoother texture, puree with an immersion blender, blender, or food processor.

Step 2

Make the crust. Preheat the oven to 350 °F. Line a 9x13-inch pan with aluminum foil, extending over the sides of the pan, then spray with cooking spray. In a large, microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Add in the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine; no streaks of flour should remain. The mixture will be quite thick and it may be easiest to mix with your hands.

Step 3

Assemble the fig bars. Set aside 1 1/2 cups of the oat mixture. Press the rest into the bottom of the prepared pan, using the bottom of a glass to push the dough into a solid, flat layer. Spoon the jam over the bottom crust and spread evenly with a knife. Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the layer of jam.

Step 4

Bake the fig bars. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the jam is bubbling and the top crumble is golden brown. Remove from the oven and cool completely. To serve, lift the entire layer of jam bars from the pan using the aluminum foil as a handle. Slice into bars and serve.