Sugar-Free Fig Newtons

Remember Fig Newtons? I loved these as a kid! In fact, I still love to snack on Fig Newtons, but my version has come a long way from the processed ones found in a package. Did you know that Fig Newtons have 13 grams of sugar per two pieces! Yikes! Unlike the processed version, my recipe does not contain fake vanilla (the processed newtons do). What’s so bad about fake vanilla? Well, it is made from petrochemical precursor guaiacol, which is a greasy wood byproduct. Gross!!! Thus, I have decided to share my delicious and healthy Fig Newton recipe with you as an alternative to the store-bought treat.

My Sugar-Free & Healthy

Fig Newtons Fig & Date Filling:

⅔ cup dried figs

⅔ cup dates, pitted

1 Tbsp. lemon or orange juice

1 Tbsp. raw local honey

Base and Topping:

1 cup pecans

½ cup almonds

½ cup shredded, dried coconut (sulfur-free and sugar-free)

4 large dates, pitted

½ tsp. cinnamon

1 pinch sea salt

How to Make:

• Place first 4 ingredients in a food processor and blend to a paste. Set aside.
• Process the pecans, almonds, coconut, cinnamon, and salt in a food processor until coarsely ground. Add dates (1 at a time) and process until the mixture starts to stick together. In a small square baking pan, arrange half of the crumble as a base.
• Spread all the fig/date mixture on top, and sprinkle with the remaining crumble on top.
• Press layers together with the back of a spoon. Cut into squares.
• That’s it. You’re done. Simple, cheap, and healthy.

Like all my sweet treats, simply wrap these up individually. Make sure you use plastic wrap. Yes, these make for an easy “grab-and-go” healthy snack!