introduction
Fig Newton Butter is a delightful and nutritious spread that brings the classic flavor of Fig Newtons to your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for those who want a healthier alternative to store-bought spreads. Packed with dried fruits and a hint of orange zest, it’s a treat that can be enjoyed by the whole family. You can also explore other quick and healthy recipes like Almond Butter Protein Balls for different energy-boosting options.

why make this recipe
Making Fig Newton Butter at home is simple and allows you to control the ingredients. You can adjust the sweetness, add spices, and make it as smooth or chunky as you like. This spread is not just delicious; it’s also full of nutrients from the dried fruits. It’s a versatile option for breakfast or snacks and can be paired with many foods.
how to make Fig Newton Butter
To create Fig Newton Butter, there are two main methods you can choose from—lacto-fermented or quick version.
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup dried figs
- 1/4 cup dried apples
- 1 1/2 – 2 cups warm filtered water
- Zest of 1 small orange
- 1/2 teaspoon unrefined sea salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh whey
- 1-2 tablespoons raw honey (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Directions:
Lacto-Fermented Version
- Coarsely chop the figs and apples and place them in a bowl. Cover with warm filtered water and let sit for 20-25 minutes until softened.
- Drain well, reserving the soaking water.
- Place the softened fruit in a food processor with the orange zest, salt, and the whey. Process until a smooth paste forms, adding a teaspoon or so of the reserved water if necessary.
- Spoon the paste into a pint-sized mason jar, pressing down to remove any air pockets and leaving at least 1 inch of headspace. Cover with at least 1/2-inch of the reserved soaking liquid and seal tightly.
- Set aside at room temperature for 1-2 days, then stir in honey and cinnamon, if desired, before storing in the refrigerator for 6-8 weeks.
Quick Version
- Coarsely chop the figs and apples and place them in a bowl. Cover with warm filtered water and let sit for 20-25 minutes until softened.
- Drain well, reserving the soaking water.
- Place the softened fruit in a food processor with the orange zest, salt, honey, and cinnamon. Process until a smooth paste forms, adding a teaspoon or so of the reserved water if necessary.
- Spoon into a glass storage jar and keep it in the refrigerator for 2-4 weeks.
how to serve Fig Newton Butter
Fig Newton Butter can be served in many ways. Spread it on toast or crackers for a delicious snack. It also pairs wonderfully with yogurt and smoothies, adding a sweet and fruity flavor. You can even use it as a filling for sandwiches or as a topping for pancakes.
how to store Fig Newton Butter
Store Fig Newton Butter in a tightly sealed jar in the refrigerator. It will keep for 6-8 weeks if made using the lacto-fermented method and 2-4 weeks for the quick version. Always ensure that the container is tightly sealed to maintain freshness.
tips to make Fig Newton Butter
- Use fresh, high-quality dried fruits for the best flavor.
- Feel free to mix in other spices, such as nutmeg, to customize your spread.
- If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend longer in the food processor.
- You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey.
variations
For a nutty twist, consider adding a tablespoon of almond or nut butter to the recipe. This will provide extra creaminess and additional flavor.
FAQs
Can I use fresh figs instead of dried?
While fresh figs offer great flavor, dried figs are better for this recipe due to their concentrated sweetness and texture.
Is it necessary to use whey?
The whey helps with fermentation, but if you want a quick version, you can skip this ingredient.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh whey?
You can substitute fresh whey with plain yogurt, but this will alter the fermentation process and shelf life of the butter.
Fig Newton Butter
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A nutritious and delightful spread inspired by Fig Newtons, perfect for breakfast or snacks.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup dried figs
- 1/4 cup dried apples
- 1 1/2 – 2 cups warm filtered water
- Zest of 1 small orange
- 1/2 teaspoon unrefined sea salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh whey
- 1–2 tablespoons raw honey (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Coarsely chop the figs and apples and place them in a bowl. Cover with warm filtered water and let sit for 20-25 minutes until softened.
- Drain well, reserving the soaking water.
- Place the softened fruit in a food processor with the orange zest, salt, and the whey. Process until a smooth paste forms, adding a teaspoon or so of the reserved water if necessary.
- Spoon the paste into a pint-sized mason jar, pressing down to remove any air pockets and leaving at least 1 inch of headspace. Cover with at least 1/2-inch of the reserved soaking liquid and seal tightly.
- Set aside at room temperature for 1-2 days, then stir in honey and cinnamon, if desired, before storing in the refrigerator for 6-8 weeks.
Notes
Store Fig Newton Butter in a tightly sealed jar in the refrigerator. Use fresh, high-quality dried fruits for the best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg