Dried figs are a hidden gem in the world of baking. Their naturally sweet flavour, chewy texture, and impressive nutrient profile make them an ideal ingredient for a range of baked goods. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting your journey in the kitchen, dried figs offer a versatile way to enhance both sweet and savoury creations.
In this article, we’ll explore a collection of delicious baking recipes using dried figs—tailored for UK home bakers who value flavour, simplicity, and wholesome ingredients.
Why Bake with Dried Figs?
Dried figs bring a deep, honeyed sweetness and subtle crunch thanks to their tiny seeds. They pair beautifully with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom, and work well with nuts, chocolate, and cheeses. Beyond taste, figs are a great source of fibre, potassium, calcium, and antioxidants—making them not only tasty but also nourishing.
They also have a long shelf life and are easy to find in UK supermarkets, health food stores, or online.
1. Classic Fig and Walnut Loaf
This hearty loaf is perfect for afternoon tea or breakfast on the go.
Ingredients:
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200g dried figs, chopped
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100g walnuts, roughly chopped
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250g plain flour
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100g light brown sugar
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2 large eggs
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120ml milk
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60ml vegetable oil
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1 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp cinnamon
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Pinch of salt
Method:
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Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan/gas mark 4). Grease and line a loaf tin.
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In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and oil.
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Fold the wet ingredients into the dry mix, then stir in figs and walnuts.
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Pour into the loaf tin and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean.
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Cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
2. Dried Fig and Oat Cookies
A soft, chewy cookie loaded with natural sweetness and texture.
Ingredients:
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150g dried figs, finely chopped
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100g rolled oats
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100g plain flour
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75g butter, softened
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100g soft light brown sugar
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1 egg
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½ tsp baking soda
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
Method:
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Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
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Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
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Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
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Stir in the flour, baking soda, and salt, followed by the oats and figs.
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Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the tray, spacing them apart.
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Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden at the edges.
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Let cool on the tray for a few minutes before transferring to a rack.
3. Rustic Fig and Almond Tart
A visually impressive yet simple tart ideal for entertaining.
Ingredients:
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200g dried figs, halved
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1 sheet of ready-rolled shortcrust pastry
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100g ground almonds
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2 tbsp honey
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1 egg
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50g unsalted butter, softened
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Zest of 1 orange
Method:
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Preheat oven to 190°C (170°C fan).
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Line a tart tin with the pastry and trim excess. Prick the base with a fork.
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In a bowl, beat together butter, honey, egg, orange zest, and almonds.
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Spread almond mixture over the pastry base.
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Arrange fig halves on top in a circular pattern.
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Bake for 30–35 minutes until the filling is golden and set.
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Serve warm or cold with a dollop of crème fraîche.
4. Fig and Dark Chocolate Brownies
A decadent twist on a classic treat.
Ingredients:
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150g dried figs, chopped
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200g dark chocolate
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150g butter
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200g caster sugar
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3 eggs
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100g plain flour
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Pinch of salt
Method:
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Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Line a square baking tin.
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Melt the chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water.
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Remove from heat, then stir in sugar and eggs one at a time.
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Fold in the flour, salt, and figs.
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Pour into the tin and bake for 25–30 minutes.
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Let cool completely before slicing.
5. Spiced Fig Muffins
Perfect for lunchboxes or a weekend bake.
Ingredients:
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180g dried figs, chopped
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250g self-raising flour
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100g brown sugar
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1 tsp mixed spice
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1 egg
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100ml vegetable oil
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150ml milk
Method:
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Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Line a muffin tin with cases.
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In one bowl, combine flour, sugar, and spice.
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In another, whisk the egg, milk, and oil.
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Mix the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the figs.
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Spoon into cases and bake for 20–25 minutes.
Storage Tips
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Dried figs should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry cupboard.
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Baked goods made with figs are best enjoyed within 3–4 days but can also be frozen for longer shelf life.
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To rehydrate dried figs for softer texture, soak them in warm water or juice for 15–20 minutes before using.
Final Thoughts
Dried figs are more than just a healthy snack—they’re a flavour-packed ingredient that adds depth, sweetness, and nutrition to your baking. Whether you’re crafting a rustic tart or a batch of gooey brownies, figs can elevate your bakes with minimal effort.
Try one of these recipes today and experience the natural richness dried figs bring to your favourite homemade treats. Your kitchen—and your taste buds—will thank you.