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Tasty Fig And Cream Cheese Bars

Delicious bars featuring a creamy filling of cream cheese and sweet dried figs atop a buttery crust, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 9 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened (or a halal-friendly butter substitute)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt
For the cream cheese filling
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 0.5 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped dried figs (halal-friendly)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
  3. Add in the softened butter and vanilla extract. Use a fork or your hands to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch square baking pan.
Baking the Crust
  1. Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes or until it’s lightly golden.
Making the Filling
  1. While the crust is baking, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar in a separate bowl.
  2. Mix in the remaining teaspoon of vanilla extract until the filling is smooth.
  3. Gently fold in the chopped figs until evenly distributed.
Combining and Final Baking
  1. Once the crust is done, pour the cream cheese mixture over the warm crust, spreading it evenly.
  2. Return the pan to the oven for another 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
Cooling and Serving
  1. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
  2. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Notes

For a dairy-free option, swap out the cream cheese for a plant-based alternative and use vegan butter in the crust. Ensure bars cool completely for easier slicing, and avoid overbaking.