Fig Bars

Modified from: https://minimalistbaker.com/healthy-fig-newtons-gf/

8 x 8 pan with straight sides (about 25 squares)

1. Cut stems off figs and soak in hot water

• 8 oz dried figs
• 10 dates

2. In separate cup soak in hot water

• 1 c. dates

3. Process to fine meal in food processor, then turn out into large bowl

• 1/4 c. oatmeal
• 1 c. almonds
• 1 c. pecans

4. Drain off water from one cup of hot dates from step 2 and process in food processor until smooth. Then add to ground meal from step 3 and mix with hands until combined.

5. Put about 16" long plastic wrap extended over sides of 8x8 pan. Press half of meal from step 4 until flat and smooth. Pick out of pan with plastic wrap and set aside. This is the top of the bar.

6. Press the other half of the meal from step 4 directly into the 8x8 pan. This is the bottom of the bar.

7. Drain off and reserve water from figs and dates from step 1. Put in food processor along with

• 1/4 t. cinnamon
• Might need to add some of the reserved water from step 1 to make a smooth paste.

8. Process until it forms a smooth paste. This is the middle layer. Smooth on top of bottom layer in 8x8 pan.

9. Tricky part. Carefully turn pan upside down over top layer. Then holding onto plastic and sides of pan, turn pan upright so that top layer now rests on middle layer. Press down. Put in fridge for awhile before cutting into squares.

Note: Can substitute dried apricots and possibly other dried fruits for middle layer.