This Italian fig cookies recipe has been handed down through the generations to make a classic Christmas cookie that's delicious with hot coffee.
Preparation Time
25 mins
Cooking Time
10 mins
Total Time
35 mins
Calories
302 Calories
Recipe Instructions
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2
To make the dough: Beat 3 cups of sugar and butter together in a medium bowl until light and fluffy. Add eggs, vanilla, and salt; mix well. Blend in flour and baking powder by hand, then knead dough until smooth and workable. Add enough milk to reach a soft, workable consistency. (This takes time and effort, but you'll know the dough is ready when it becomes smooth).
Step 3
To make the filling: Place chopped figs, raisins, chopped orange, and chopped apple in a food processor; pulse until the mixture is finely chopped but still has texture. If the mixture is too dry or thick, mix in up to 1 cup of water, if desired. Transfer to a bowl and stir in chopped pecans, ½ cup sugar, and cinnamon, then knead everything together by hand until combined. The mixture will be sticky.
Step 4
Roll out a portion of the dough into a thin sheet on a lightly floured surface. Spoon a line of fig mixture down the center. Dampen the edges of the dough with water and fold over the filling, sealing fig filling inside. Cut the filled strip into 2-inch pieces or to your desired length. Make 2 or 3 slits in the top of each cookie to allow steam to escape. Arrange cookies on prepared baking sheets; repeat with remaining dough and filling.
Step 5
Bake cookies in the preheated oven until edges are golden brown, about 10 to 15 minutes. Cool on baking sheet briefly before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
