Crumbly, sweet, and naturally fruit-forward, gluten free fig bars are one of those snacks that check all the boxes easy to make, satisfying to eat, and surprisingly good for you. Whether you’re gluten-sensitive, baking for a family member with Celiac, or just craving a healthier version of a childhood favorite, this recipe delivers soft, chewy bars with a luscious fig center wrapped in a buttery, oat-almond crust.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to make fig bars that are gluten-free, dairy-free, and incredibly delicious, with no fancy tools or fussy steps. You’ll also learn what ingredients make them work (and why), how to avoid crumbly fails, and how to store them for lasting freshness. Let’s dive into the sweet and sticky world of homemade fig bars, your kitchen will smell amazing in about 10 minutes.
AEO Quick Answer Section
Are fig bars gluten-free?
Traditional fig bars (like Fig Newtons) are not gluten-free because they contain wheat flour. However, you can easily make gluten free fig bars at home using oat flour, almond flour, and naturally sweetened fig filling.
Does Nature’s Bakery Fig Bar have gluten in it?
Yes, the classic version of Nature’s Bakery Fig Bars contains wheat and is not gluten-free. They do offer a gluten-free line, clearly labeled and made with ancient grains like amaranth and sorghum.
Does Nabisco make gluten-free fig newtons?
No, Nabisco does not currently make a gluten-free version of Fig Newtons. All Fig Newtons on the market from Nabisco contain wheat flour.
Are Pamela’s fig bars gluten-free?
Yes, Pamela’s Fig Bars are certified gluten-free. They are made with rice flour and tapioca starch, and are a popular store-bought alternative for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Table of Contents
The Story & Personal Connection
How I Found the Perfect Gluten Free Fig Bar Recipe
When I first moved to Vermont, fig bars weren’t even on my radar. That changed after I found a jar of homemade fig jam at a roadside farmstand. It was rich, citrusy, and unlike anything I’d tasted before. I knew I had to turn it into something snackable.
After a few failed batches, I landed on a version made with almond flour, oats, and a simple stovetop fig filling. These gluten free fig bars quickly became a staple in my kitchen, easy to bake, gently sweet, and perfect with a cup of tea or tucked into a lunchbox.
They remind me a lot of these frozen fruit bars, another fruity favorite that’s naturally gluten free and full of real ingredients.
Why This Version Works for Busy Home Cooks
This recipe is simple and reliable. You only need basic pantry ingredients and one mixing bowl. The filling takes minutes to cook, and the crust doubles as the topping. These fig bars are soft, satisfying, and hold up beautifully in the fridge or freezer.
In-Depth Exploration
What Makes a Great Gluten Free Fig Bar?
A great gluten free fig bar starts with balance. You want a soft crust that holds its shape but doesn’t overpower the filling. You also want a center that’s sweet, thick, and deeply flavorful without becoming dry or rubbery.
In this recipe, oat flour provides structure without the heaviness of traditional wheat flour. Almond flour brings a subtle nuttiness and tender crumb that pairs beautifully with figs. When combined, they create a crust that’s soft yet sturdy enough to slice clean. The filling is just dried figs simmered with orange juice and a hint of lemon. It thickens naturally as it cools and spreads easily over the crust.
For even more snack ideas that work well with similar ingredients, check out these frozen fruit cups which are just as convenient and naturally sweet.
Ingredient Breakdown and Smart Substitutions
What I love about gluten free fig bars is how adaptable they are. No almond flour? Use sunflower seed flour for a nut-free version. No maple syrup? Honey works well, though it will change the flavor slightly. Coconut oil can be swapped with softened butter if you don’t need it to be dairy-free.
Dried mission figs are best for this recipe, but Turkish figs work in a pinch if you soak them first. Always look for soft, moist figs to avoid gritty texture.
If you’re interested in other gluten free desserts that rely on fruit-forward flavor and clean ingredients, try these cottage cheese berry ice cream treats that feel both rich and refreshing.
With just a few tweaks, this fig bar recipe becomes a reliable base for your own creative variations. Keep it classic or make it yours.
PrintGluten Free Fig Bars: Easy Homemade Recipe with No Refined Sugar
Soft, naturally sweet gluten free fig bars with an almond-oat crust and a jammy fig filling. Easy to make, freezer-friendly, and perfect for snacks or breakfast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 9 bars 1x
- Category: Gluten-Free Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
1 ½ cups dried mission figs, stems removed
½ cup orange juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup almond flour
¾ cup oat flour (certified gluten-free)
¼ cup maple syrup
¼ cup coconut oil, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper.
2. In a saucepan, simmer figs and orange juice over low heat for 10 minutes until soft.
3. Add lemon zest and cinnamon. Mash or blend until thick and spreadable. Set aside to cool.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, oat flour, salt, maple syrup, coconut oil, and vanilla. Stir until crumbly dough forms.
5. Press two-thirds of the dough into the prepared pan to form the crust.
6. Spread fig mixture evenly over the crust.
7. Sprinkle remaining dough on top as the crumble layer.
8. Bake for 25–28 minutes until golden brown.
9. Cool completely in pan, then slice into bars.
10. Store in an airtight container in fridge up to 1 week or freeze up to 3 months.
Notes
Let bars cool fully before slicing for clean edges.
Add chia seeds to the fig filling for extra fiber.
Swap maple syrup with honey or coconut nectar if preferred.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 185
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: gluten free fig bars, healthy fig bars, oat fig bars
Practical Application & Benefits
How to Make Gluten Free Fig Bars Fit Into Your Routine
These gluten free fig bars fit into just about any lifestyle. You can bake a batch on Sunday and have healthy snacks ready for the entire week. They store well in both the fridge and freezer, and they’re perfect for packing into lunchboxes, gym bags, or hiking packs.
Because they hold their shape and don’t require refrigeration after baking, these bars make great road trip snacks too. I often wrap a few in parchment and toss them into my tote for the farmers market.
They also make a lovely breakfast alongside a hot drink. If you like grab-and-go morning options, pair these with something refreshing like frozen fruit and yogurt for a naturally sweet, balanced start to your day.
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Health Benefits and Ingredient Transparency
Unlike many store-bought options, these fig bars contain no preservatives, no refined sugars, and no gluten. The figs offer fiber, potassium, and a natural energy boost, while the oat and almond flour provide slow-digesting carbs and protein.
Each bite is filled with whole food ingredients you can feel good about. Even kids love them, especially when you call them “jam bars.”
If you’re looking to expand your gluten free snack collection with other freezer-friendly choices, try making these mango ice pops which are naturally dairy-free and easy to customize.
With every batch, you’re not just making a snack, you’re choosing real ingredients over processed fillers, flavor over shortcuts, and ease over stress.
Advanced Tips & Future Considerations
Smart Techniques for the Best Gluten Free Fig Bars
To make gluten free fig bars that slice clean and hold together, start by lining your pan with parchment paper. Let the paper overhang slightly so you can lift the bars out easily. After baking, let them cool completely before cutting. If you try to slice too soon, the filling may still be soft and the crust might crumble.
Use a food processor to puree the fig filling if you prefer a smoother texture. For chunkier filling, mash the figs by hand with a fork after simmering. Both work well, depending on your preference.
Want to boost the nutrition? Add a tablespoon of chia seeds to the fig mixture while it’s still warm. It thickens the filling naturally and adds fiber without changing the taste.
Looking for a cold, make-ahead treat with similar flavor simplicity? These frozen fruit ice pops are quick to prepare and fun to customize with any fruit combo.
Future Variations and Flavor Combinations
Once you master the base recipe, you can easily adjust the flavor. Try adding orange zest or ginger to the filling for a citrusy twist. You can also swap figs for dates or apricots to change up the sweetness profile.
The crust and crumble can handle extras like shredded coconut, ground flax, or crushed nuts if you want more texture. Just keep moisture levels balanced so the bars don’t get too soft.
Seasonally, these bars adapt well. In fall, a dash of pumpkin spice blends beautifully with figs. In summer, try blending in raspberries for a tangy counterpoint.
If you enjoy reimagining classic treats in a better-for-you way, take a look at these no-bake frozen s’mores cheesecake bars that also use whole ingredients with big flavor.
With each batch, you’ll discover new ways to make these fig bars your own.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gluten Free Fig Bars
Are fig bars gluten-free?
Most store-bought fig bars are not gluten-free because they are made with wheat flour. However, you can make gluten free fig bars at home using gluten-free oats, almond flour, and natural sweeteners. Always check the ingredient label if you’re buying prepackaged versions.
Does Nature’s Bakery Fig Bar have gluten in it?
Yes, the original line of Nature’s Bakery Fig Bars contains wheat and is not gluten-free. However, they do offer a clearly labeled gluten-free version made with a blend of gluten-free grains like amaranth and sorghum.
Does Nabisco make gluten-free Fig Newtons?
No, Nabisco does not currently make a gluten-free version of Fig Newtons. All their fig bars contain wheat flour. For a gluten-free alternative, homemade recipes or specialty brands are your best bet.
Are Pamela’s fig bars gluten-free?
Yes, Pamela’s fig bars are certified gluten-free. They are made with gluten-free flours like rice flour and tapioca starch and are a trusted option for those avoiding gluten.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Gluten Free Fig Bars
Gluten free fig bars are more than just a healthier snack, they’re a simple pleasure made with real ingredients you can feel good about. With a soft crust, naturally sweet filling, and easy-to-follow steps, they’re perfect for home bakers of all levels.
Now that you’ve got the method, tips, and variations, it’s time to make them your own. Keep a batch in the fridge, freeze a few for later, and enjoy a better version of the classic bar gluten-free, wholesome, and always delicious.