Fig Cream Cheese Bars have become my go-to treat whenever I need a little something special without a lot of fuss. I remember the first time I tasted one at a friend’s potluck – the combination of the sweet, chewy fig and the tangy, creamy filling was pure bliss! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a little slice of heaven. This fig cream cheese bar recipe is incredibly simple, using pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to create something truly gourmet. The buttery crust just melts in your mouth, perfectly complementing the rich fig and cream cheese topping. If you’re looking for a delightful homemade treat that’s sure to impress, you’ve found it! Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love These Fig Cream Cheese Bars
There are so many reasons to adore these delightful bars. They’re perfect for any occasion, from a casual afternoon snack to a fancy dessert spread. Here’s why you’ll be making them again and again:
- Incredibly easy fig cream cheese bars to whip up, even for beginners.
- You get that wonderful homemade taste and quality that store-bought just can’t match.
- The balance of sweet fig and tangy cream cheese is absolutely divine.
- They’re perfectly portioned, making them great for sharing at parties or picnics.
- These are truly homemade fig cream cheese bars that feel special.
- The buttery crust provides a wonderful texture contrast.
- They hold up beautifully, making them a great make-ahead dessert.
- You can customize them with a sprinkle of nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients for Fig Cream Cheese Bars
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful fig preserve cream cheese bars. The crust is a simple, buttery shortbread base that’s incredibly easy to make. For the topping, we use classic cream cheese, sugar, and egg for that signature tangy richness. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
Crust Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – the base of our buttery crust
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar – adds a lovely caramel note and moisture
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes – essential for that tender, crumbly texture
Cream Cheese Topping Ingredients
- 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened – don’t use low-fat, it won’t be as creamy!
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar – balances the tanginess of the cream cheese
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – enhances all the flavors
- 1 large egg – binds everything together for a smooth topping
- 1 cup dried figs, soaked if hard – these are the star, yielding a sweet, rich fig filling
How to Make Fig Cream Cheese Bars
Now for the fun part – bringing these delicious bars to life! This recipe is straightforward, and the results are always worth it. Follow these simple steps to create perfect fig and cream cheese dessert bars.
Making the Crust
- Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, gently grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup packed brown sugar.
- Step 3: Add the 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes, to the dry ingredients. Use your fingertips or a pastry blender to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Step 4: Press this crumbly mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. This forms the delightful base for our bars.
Preparing the Fig Filling
- Step 5: If your 1 cup dried figs are a bit firm, soak them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes to soften them up.
- Step 6: Drain the figs and then chop them finely. Place the chopped figs in a small saucepan with a splash of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the figs soften further and look jammy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 7: Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to brighten the flavor. Let this fig mixture cool slightly.
Mixing the Cream Cheese Topping
- Step 8: In a separate bowl, beat the 8 oz softened full-fat cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. This is key to avoiding lumps in your topping.
- Step 9: Add 1/3 cup granulated sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract to the cream cheese. Beat until well combined and smooth.
- Step 10: Beat in the 1 large egg until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage.
Baking Instructions
- Step 11: Carefully spread the slightly cooled fig filling evenly over the pressed crust.
- Step 12: Gently spoon the cream cheese mixture over the fig layer, spreading it out to cover completely. This is how you make fig cream cheese bars that look as good as they taste.
- Step 13: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cream cheese topping is set around the edges and just slightly jiggly in the center. It should have a light golden hue.
Cooling and Slicing
- Step 14: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Patience here is important for clean slices.
- Step 15: For the best texture and easiest slicing, chill the cooled bars in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or even overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the structure to firm up.
- Step 16: Once chilled, cut into desired squares. Dusting with powdered sugar before serving is a simple touch that makes these bars even more special. Enjoy your homemade treat!
Pro Tips for the Best Fig Cream Cheese Bars
I’ve found a few tricks over the years that really elevate these bars from good to absolutely amazing. Following these simple tips will help you achieve the best fig cream cheese bar recipe results every time.
- Chill your butter thoroughly for the crust – cold butter creates flaky layers.
- Don’t overbake the bars; a slight jiggle in the center means they’ll set perfectly as they cool.
- Always let the bars cool completely before slicing. This is crucial for clean cuts and a pleasant texture.
- Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust for a warm spice note.
What’s the secret to perfect Fig Cream Cheese Bars?
The real secret to perfect cream cheese fig bars lies in the balance of ingredients and proper chilling. Using full-fat cream cheese is non-negotiable for creaminess, and letting the finished bars chill for several hours firms up the filling beautifully, making them easier to slice and enhancing their flavor. For more baking tips, check out these dessert recipes.
Can I make Fig Cream Cheese Bars ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! These bars are fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare them up to two days in advance and store them, covered, in the refrigerator. They often taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Fig Cream Cheese Bars?
A couple of common pitfalls include overmixing the cream cheese filling, which can lead to a tough texture, and slicing them while warm, which makes for messy bars. Ensure your cream cheese is properly softened, and be patient with the cooling and chilling process for the neatest squares. Learning about proper baking techniques can help prevent these issues.
Best Ways to Serve Fig Cream Cheese Bars
These bars are so versatile, they’re perfect for so many occasions! They truly shine as a delightful, sweet fig cream cheese bar that pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up. I love serving them at brunches alongside fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait. They also make a fantastic addition to a dessert platter at holidays or gatherings, offering a unique flavor profile that guests always rave about. For a more gourmet experience, try topping them with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped toasted walnuts. You might also enjoy these breakfast bowl recipes with eggs for a different kind of treat.
Nutrition Facts for Fig Cream Cheese Bars
When you whip up this delightful fig cream cheese bar recipe, you’re getting a treat that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect per serving, though remember these are estimates and can vary slightly based on your specific ingredients and how you cut your bars. For more information on nutrition, you can consult resources like the USDA FoodData Central.
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Fig Cream Cheese Bars
Once your delicious fig cream cheese squares recipe is baked and cooled, proper storage is key to keeping them fresh and tasty. I always make sure they’re completely cool before storing. For the best results, place the cooled bars in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them even longer, these bars freeze beautifully! Wrap them securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. For a quick thaw, you can carefully reheat them in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes until just warmed through. Consider pairing them with some homemade ice cream for a delightful dessert combination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fig Cream Cheese Bars
Can I use fresh figs instead of dried in this fig cream cheese bar recipe?
While this recipe is designed for dried figs, you can experiment with fresh ones! You’ll need about 2 cups of fresh figs, stemmed and halved. Cook them down with a little sugar and lemon juice until they reach a jam-like consistency before spreading them on the crust. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
Are these bars considered simple fig cream cheese bars?
Absolutely! These are wonderfully simple fig cream cheese bars. The crust comes together in minutes with just a few ingredients, and the topping is a straightforward mix of cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla. They require minimal fuss but deliver maximum flavor, making them perfect for busy bakers. For other simple yet delicious recipes, explore our mini citrus cloud bites.
What can I serve with fig cream cheese bars?
These bars are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a more elaborate spread, consider serving them with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. They make a lovely addition to any dessert buffet or brunch spread. You might also like these cranberry feta pinwheels with cream cheese for a savory-sweet option.
How do I get clean cuts on my fig cream cheese bars?
The trick to clean cuts is chilling the bars completely. Once baked, let them cool in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between each cut. This ensures you get those beautiful, defined squares every time.
Variations of Fig Cream Cheese Bars You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic fig cream cheese bar recipe, you might want to explore some fun twists! These bars are so adaptable, and you can easily tailor them to suit different tastes or dietary needs. For a healthier spin, consider a gluten-free fig cream cheese bars version by using a gluten-free flour blend for the crust. If you’re aiming for a vegan treat, you can create vegan fig cream cheese bars by substituting the butter with coconut oil and using a flax egg or commercial egg replacer for the topping. You could also try a different fruit preserve, like apricot or cherry, for a different flavor profile, making it more of a fig cheesecake bars recipe with a fruity twist. Another idea is to add some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the crust for extra crunch and flavor! For another delightful dessert, try our baby lemon impossible pies recipe.
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Fig Cream Cheese Bars: Divine 1-Hour Treat
- Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy these delightful Fig and Cream Cheese Bars, featuring a buttery crust and a creamy, sweet fig topping. They are easy to make, perfect for sharing, and can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 cup Dried Figs, soaked if hard
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, cold, cut into cubes
- For the Cream Cheese Topping:
- 8 oz Cream Cheese, full-fat
- 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1 large Egg
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a large bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Rub in cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Press evenly into a greased or lined 20×30 cm baking pan.
- Prepare the Fig Filling: Cook cleaned and chopped figs in a saucepan with a splash of water until softened. Blend with lemon juice until smooth. Spread evenly over the crust.
- Mix the Cream Cheese Topping: Beat softened cream cheese with sugar, vanilla, and egg until creamy. Spread evenly over the fig layer.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 180°C (356°F). Bake for 30 minutes, or until the topping is set and lightly golden.
- Cool and Slice: Let bars cool in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. Cool completely. Chill for at least 4 hours for clean cuts and enhanced flavor.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- For a heartier crust, use whole wheat flour.
- Substitute coconut sugar for brown sugar for a different twist.
- Use a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option.
- A flax egg can be used for a vegan version.
- Soak figs in warm water for 10-15 minutes if they are hard.
- Chill bars for at least 4 hours before slicing for best results.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freeze wrapped bars for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg