Italian Fig Cookies
Italian Fig Cookies feature a soft pastry wrapped around a spiced fig filling.They are rich, aromatic, and lightly sweet.Traditionally enjoyed during holidays and celebrations.Perfect for gifting and festive dessert platters.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Fig Filling
- 2 cups dried figs, stems removed
- ½ cup raisins or dates
- ½ cup almonds or walnuts, finely chopped
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp cloves
- 2 tbsp honey or sugar
- 2–3 tbsp orange juice or water
Optional Topping
- Powdered sugar or simple glaze
- Sprinkles (traditional)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling by pulsing figs, raisins, nuts, zest, spices, honey, and juice in a food processor until thick and spreadable. Set aside.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light. Beat in eggs and vanilla.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients to form a soft dough. Chill for 20 minutes.
- Roll dough into rectangles and place a strip of fig filling down the center.
- Fold dough over filling, seal edges, and place seam-side down.
- Cut into pieces and arrange on a lined baking sheet.
Notes
- Filling can be made a day ahead.
- Dough is easier to handle when slightly chilled.
- Adjust spices to taste.
- Cookies improve in flavour after resting overnight.
- Store in an airtight container.