Happy National Fig Newton’s Day

National Fig Newton Day is a delightful celebration dedicated to the iconic Fig Newton cookie. Observed annually on January 16th, this day pays homage to the delicious treat that has been a favorite snack for generations.

The Fig Newton, first introduced in 1891 by the Kennedy Biscuit Company, has become a classic in the world of cookies. What sets it apart is the soft, cake-like exterior that encapsulates a sweet and chewy fig filling. The combination of textures and flavors has made Fig Newtons a timeless snack enjoyed by people of all ages.

On National Fig Newton Day, enthusiasts indulge in these scrumptious cookies, savoring each bite as they appreciate the unique blend of fig and pastry. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as a quick on-the-go snack, Fig Newtons hold a special place in the hearts of many.

The origins of National Fig Newton Day are not precisely documented, but it gained popularity through the love and nostalgia associated with this classic treat. Fans of the cookie use this day as an opportunity to share their fond memories of enjoying Fig Newtons with family and friends.

To celebrate National Fig Newton Day, consider hosting a cookie-themed gathering, complete with a variety of Fig Newton flavors for tasting. Alternatively, you can get creative in the kitchen and try making your own homemade version of these beloved treats. Share your Fig Newton creations on social media using the hashtag #FigNewtonDay to connect with fellow enthusiasts.

As we celebrate National Fig Newton Day, let’s take a moment to appreciate the simple joy that this cookie brings to our lives. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the world of Fig Newtons, January 16th is the perfect day to indulge in the sweet nostalgia of this timeless treat.

Homemade Fig Newtons Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups dried figs, stems removed
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the dried figs and water. Simmer over low heat until the figs are softened, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Transfer the softened figs to a food processor and add honey (or maple syrup) and vanilla extract. Blend until you get a smooth fig paste. Set aside.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and orange zest (if using), and mix until well combined.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Divide the dough in half.
7. Roll out one half of the dough on a floured surface to create a rectangle, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
8. Spread half of the fig paste evenly over the rolled-out dough.
9. Roll the dough over the fig paste, creating a log shape. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and fig paste.
10. Place the two logs on the prepared baking sheet and flatten them slightly.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
12. Allow the logs to cool for a few minutes before slicing them into Fig Newton-sized bars.
13. Once completely cooled, store the homemade Fig Newtons in an airtight container. Enjoy your delicious and nostalgic treat!

Gourmet Fig Newtons Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Fig Filling:

• 2 cups dried mission figs, stems removed
• 1 cup port wine
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste

For the Pastry:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon orange zest

For the Glaze:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1/2 teaspoon orange blossom water (optional)

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the fig filling. In a saucepan, combine the dried figs, port wine, orange juice, honey, and vanilla bean paste. Simmer over medium heat until the figs are soft and the liquid has reduced, creating a thick, luxurious filling. Set aside to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the chilled butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and orange zest, continuing to mix until well incorporated.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, forming a cohesive dough. Divide the dough in half, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Roll out one portion of the chilled dough on a floured surface to create a rectangle, approximately 1/8 inch thick.
7. Spread a generous layer of the prepared fig filling over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. Carefully roll the dough over the fig filling, creating a log shape. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and fig filling.
9. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
10. While the Fig Newtons are baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and orange blossom water (if using) until smooth.
11. Once the logs have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the top.
12. Allow the Fig Newtons to cool completely before slicing them into elegant, gourmet bars.
13. Serve these exquisite Fig Newtons with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a truly indulgent experience. Enjoy the sophisticated flavors of this gourmet twist on a classic treat.

Keto-Friendly Fig Newtons Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Fig Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups dried figs, stems removed
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 tablespoons powdered erythritol or preferred keto sweetener
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Keto Pastry:

• 1 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1/4 cup coconut flour
• 1/4 cup powdered erythritol or preferred keto sweetener
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the dried figs and water. Simmer over low heat until the figs are softened, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Transfer the softened figs to a food processor, add powdered erythritol (or your preferred keto sweetener) and vanilla extract. Blend until you get a smooth fig paste. Set aside.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, coconut flour, powdered erythritol, baking powder, and salt.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted coconut oil, egg, and vanilla extract.
6. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, you can refrigerate it for a short time to make it easier to handle.
7. Divide the dough in half. Roll out one half on a parchment paper-lined surface to create a rectangle, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
8. Spread half of the fig paste evenly over the rolled-out dough.
9. Carefully roll the dough over the fig paste, creating a log shape. Repeat the process with the remaining dough and fig paste.
10. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes or until the edges are golden.
11. Allow the logs to cool for a few minutes before slicing them into keto-friendly Fig Newton-sized bars.
12. Store the keto Fig Newtons in an airtight container once completely cooled. Enjoy this low-carb version of a classic treat without compromising your keto lifestyle.