Sweet Dough Fig Bars

24 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 30 m Total: 45 m Beginner
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Sweet Dough Fig Bars
Sweet dough tarts (pastry stuffed with a sweet filling) are the most popular of the classic sweets enjoyed by Cajuns. This recipe gives a new twist to your basic sweet dough and fig preserves—turning the traditional hand-held tart into easy-to-serve bar cookies that are perfect for potlucks and gatherings.

Ingredients

24 servings
  • 1 recipe sweet dough
  • 1 quart fig preserves

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. Prepare one recipe of sweet dough (or use your favorite sweet tart dough recipe).
  3. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness and place on a sheet pan.
  4. In a food processor or pastry blender, puree the fig preserves until smooth.
  5. Spread the pureed figs evenly over the dough.
  6. Bake at 350 degrees F for approximately 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the filling is set.
  7. Cool slightly, then cut into bars.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my dough cracking when I roll it out?

A: The dough may be too cold. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before rolling. You can also roll it between two sheets of parchment paper to make it easier to handle.

Q: Can I use fresh figs instead of preserves?

A: Fig preserves are recommended because they're already sweetened and have the right consistency. Fresh figs would need to be cooked down with sugar first to achieve the proper sweetness and texture for the filling.

Tips and Techniques

For a smoother, more even layer, warm the fig preserves slightly before pureeing—this makes them easier to spread. Let the bars cool completely before cutting for cleaner slices.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • fig preserves: strawberry-fig jam, blackberry preserves, or mayhaw jelly
  • sweet dough: refrigerated pie crust or puff pastry

Equipment Needed

  • rolling pin
  • sheet pan (half-sheet or jelly roll pan)
  • food processor or pastry blender
  • parchment paper (optional, but helpful)

Historical Context

Fig trees have flourished in South Louisiana for generations, brought by early French and Spanish settlers. Sweet dough tarts became a Cajun staple because they were portable, kept well, and showcased the abundant fig harvest.