Best Vegan Fig Newton Recipe for Delicious Homemade Treats

Fig Newtons are a nostalgic treat that many of us grew up enjoying. These delightful cookies filled with sweet fig paste offer the perfect balance of chewy and soft textures.

But traditional Fig Newtons often contain ingredients that aren’t vegan-friendly, which is why I’m excited to share the best vegan Fig Newton recipe with you. This homemade version uses wholesome plant-based ingredients without compromising the classic flavor and texture you love.

Whether you’re vegan, allergic to dairy and eggs, or just want to try a healthier alternative, this recipe will satisfy your cookie cravings. The natural sweetness of figs combined with a tender, cinnamon-spiced dough creates a perfect snack or dessert.

Plus, making these at home means no preservatives or artificial ingredients, just pure goodness!

Ready to impress your friends and family with a batch of homemade vegan Fig Newtons? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan Fig Newton recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it uses all-natural ingredients that you can feel good about eating.

The filling is made from fresh or dried figs simmered with a touch of maple syrup and lemon juice, creating a rich, jammy center without added sugars or pectin.

The cookie dough is soft but holds its shape well during baking, with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla that perfectly complements the fig filling. Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity — no fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients required!

Plus, it’s easily customizable for your taste and dietary needs.

Finally, these Fig Newtons are freezer-friendly, making them an excellent make-ahead snack for busy days or a sweet gift for loved ones. If you enjoy baking vegan treats, you might also want to check out my Magic Dough Recipe for a versatile vegan dough base.

Ingredients

• For the Fig Filling:
• 2 cups dried figs, chopped (or 3 cups fresh figs, chopped)
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• For the Cookie Dough:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup organic cane sugar
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup coconut oil, solid but scoopable
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 tbsp almond milk (or any plant milk)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Food processor or blender (optional, for smoother filling)
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter
• Cooling rack

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fig Filling: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped figs, water, maple syrup, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the figs soften and the mixture thickens, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Blend the Filling: For a smoother filling, transfer the mixture to a food processor or blender and pulse until it reaches a thick, jam-like consistency. Set aside to cool completely.
3. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the coconut oil, applesauce, almond milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon or your hands to mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time.
5. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This makes it easier to roll out.
6. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/8 inch thick, roughly 10×12 inches.
8. Shape the Fig Newtons: Spread the fig filling evenly in a long strip (about 2 inches wide) down the center of the dough. Fold one side of the dough over the filling, then fold the other side on top, sealing the edges by pinching gently.
9. Cut the Cookies: Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the log into 1-inch wide cookies. Place them cut side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 1 inch apart.
10. Bake: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges.
11. Cool: Remove from the oven and transfer to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely before serving to allow the filling to set.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh figs when in season for a lighter, fresher filling. Dried figs provide a more concentrated sweetness and are available year-round.

If you prefer a chunkier filling, pulse the fig mixture less in the blender or skip blending altogether. For a nutty twist, add a tablespoon of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling.

Looking for a gluten-free version? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Just be sure to check the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

Want to experiment with other fillings? Try this same dough with homemade apricot jam or date paste for a delicious twist.

If you enjoy vegan baking, you might also appreciate my Julie Marie Eats Recipes for more plant-based inspiration.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegan Fig Newtons are perfect with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack. They also make a lovely addition to a vegan dessert platter or lunchbox treat.

For a decadent twist, serve them warm with a drizzle of vegan vanilla glaze or alongside a scoop of coconut milk ice cream. If you’re hosting a brunch, pair them with fresh fruit and your favorite plant-based cheese for an elegant spread.

Don’t forget to check out my Marzipan Challah Recipe for a stunning vegan bread that pairs beautifully with sweet spreads like fig jam.

Conclusion

With this recipe, making your own vegan Fig Newtons is easier and more rewarding than ever. The combination of a tender, cinnamon-spiced dough and luscious fig filling captures the essence of the classic cookie while keeping it wholesome and plant-based.

Whether you’re baking for a crowd, a special occasion, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these Fig Newtons will quickly become a favorite. Plus, they store well in an airtight container or freezer, so you can enjoy them anytime.

Ready to try more delicious vegan treats? Explore other creative recipes like the Lump Of Coal Recipe or the versatile Magic Dough Recipe to expand your plant-based baking repertoire!

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