Fig Preserve Cookies
Chewy fig preserve cookies with warm cinnamon and cloves, complemented by crunchy nuts. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy treat anytime, appealing to fruit and spice lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut figs into small pieces.
- Mix figs and soda in a small bowl; let stand.
- In a separate medium-sized bowl, blend margarine and brown sugar.
- Add eggs, fig preserves, and water; stir well.
- In a large bowl, mix all dry ingredients together.
- Add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and blend well.
- Stir in chopped nuts.
- Scoop teaspoon or tablespoon-sized portions and place on a cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- Allow cookies to cool. These cookies freeze well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a unique twist, consider using almond butter in place of margarine for a nutty flavor. If you don't have fig preserves, apricot or raspberry preserves can work well as substitutes. Keep an eye on the cookies towards the end of baking to prevent over-browning, as oven temperatures can vary. You can also add rolled oats for extra texture, similar to Rolled Oat Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These Fig Preserve Cookies make a delightful treat with coffee or tea. Serve them alongside a fruit platter or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet dessert. They also pair beautifully with Decadent Hot Chocolate, making them perfect for cozy gatherings. Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an extra touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fig Preserve Cookies contains roughly 1871 calories, with 27g protein, 425g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (332% of the Daily Value), iron (200% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1508mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh figs instead of fig preserves?
While fresh figs can be used, they have a higher moisture content and lack the concentrated sweetness of preserves. If you choose to use fresh figs, consider cooking them down with sugar to create a thicker filling that mimics the consistency of preserves.
What can I substitute for nuts in this recipe?
If you need a nut-free option, you can use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch. For those with allergies, you might also consider using additional dried fruits or coconut flakes to add texture and flavor.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool. Avoid overbaking to prevent them from becoming hard. It's always best to check a minute or two before the recommended baking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).