Homemade Fig Newtons
Don’t let the word vegan and gluten free fool you here. Probably the best gluten free cookie I have ever had!
Light in cookie texture loaded with 3 ingredient fig filling. This recipe is easier than it looks. Fig newtons I cannot be left alone with as is, and now this kitchen is even more deliciously dangerous for my waistline! BUT worth it!
You can add other fruit flavors but fig are sticky and hold up nicely. I would advise using dried fruit (blueberries, strawberries) and add to the fig mixture during the food processor processing. If you use fresh blueberries or strawberries they ooze out and we want our filling to hold together in the baking process.
*You can use regular stick butter and any milk you want (whole, 2%, skin, cashew, almond, etc). These can either be made vegan, gluten free, both, or neither. All substitution are a 1:1 ratio for your butter, milk, and flour. I did not have any milk so I used coffee creamer…worked perfectly!
I used Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 Gluten-Free Baking Flour, you can use all purpose or my recommended favorite whole wheat by King Arthur brand.
Watch the process below:
If you enjoy nostalgic baked treats, try these Sugar Cookies
I love the addition of the Civilized Coffee honey crystals because it does not add liquid but all of the flavor! For a fun spin, sprinkle cinnamon before you add the fig paste in the center of the dough and a tad bit of turbinado sugar on the top before baking. Both are totally optional, or add cinnamon to your dough as you are mixing it. Lots of room for play here!
For the holidays, use gingerbread spice for a gingerbread fig newton!
Why You'll Love This Homemade Fig Newtons
- Soft, tender cookie with chewy fig filling
- Naturally sweet from real figs
- Better flavor than store-bought versions
- Great for snacks or lunchbox treats
- Customizable with spices or citrus
For another classic cookie, try these Shortbread Cookie Bars
Key Ingredients You'll Need
For the filling:
- 1 cup fresh figs, stems cut
- 2 cups water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the cookie crust:
- 6 tablespoons butter, room temperature ( I used Earth Balance)
- 3/4 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon all-spice (optional)
- Dash of salt
- 2 tablespoons milk (any) or creamer
- 1 3/4 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- Honey crystals (optional)
How to Make Homemade Fig Newtons
- In a medium sauce pan, bring figs, water and lemon juice to a simmer for 10-15 minutes or until 1 tablespoon of juice is left.
- Using a food processor, or something similar, puree figs with juice until a paste is made. It is okay if some juice is left.
- Next, in a standing mixer fitted with paddle attachment or hand beaters, beat butter, sugar, vanilla, and spices (if using), and salt together. Add milk or creamer.
- On slow, blend flour and baking powder.
- Form into 3 discs and chill for 12 minutes.
- Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F, line baking sheet with parchment. Using one disc at a time, place between two pieces of parchment and roll into a 1/3-in thick vertical sheet. See video above.
- Then, spread 1/3 of the fig paste in a long vertical line and smooth it out into a wise line, add honey crystals and we roll! To roll, grab one side of the paper and fold over fig paste then repeat on the other side making the shell. Cut into 1 inch or so sections. Repeat on next 2 discs.
- I use an off set spatula to move the pieces and this you will want to work pretty quickly so the dough doesn’t get too warm.
- Bake 15-16 minutes. Remove, let cool. Store in zip lock bag or air tight container. Good on counter for 3 days, 5 days in fridge, or place in freezer for a rainy day. They are softer the next day and has more flavor. I love the crunch from the oven but also the soft chew in the morning as they set over night!
Want to see these recipes in action? Follow Stacie on YouTube for step-by-step videos and even more kitchen secrets!
For another fruit-based dessert, try this Apple Upside Down Cake
Stacie’s Tricks & Tips
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Cook filling until thick to prevent leaking
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Chill dough before rolling
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Use parchment paper for easy baking
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Don’t overbake to keep cookies soft
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Add orange zest for classic flavor
For the best results, I highly recommend using Caraway Home non-toxic bakeware—use code STACIE at checkout for a special discount!
For more baking techniques, explore
Frequently Asked Questions
What are fig newtons made of?
Fig newtons are made from a soft cookie dough wrapped around a sweet fig paste filling, often flavored with spices or citrus.
Are homemade fig newtons healthier than store-bought?
They can be healthier because they use real fruit and fewer preservatives, and the sweetness often comes naturally from figs.
Can I use fresh figs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh figs can be used, but they may need less liquid and slightly longer cooking to achieve a thick paste.
How long do homemade fig newtons last?
They last 3–5 days at room temperature in an airtight container or up to a week in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze fig newtons?
Yes, homemade fig newtons freeze well for up to 2–3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
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