Fig and Almond Cookies

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Fig and Almond Cookies.

1. Step 1

   To start your delicious baking adventure, grab a medium bowl and mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

2. Step 2

   Next, take your cubed butter and cut it into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—think of it as creating a sandy beach! Once that’s done, add in an egg and stir until a dough forms.

3. Step 3

   This might take a few minutes of mixing, but don’t rush it; you want it to hold together nicely.

4. Step 4

   When your dough is ready, turn it out onto a floured surface and give it a brief knead to bring it all together.

5. Step 5

   Shape the dough into a long roll, wrap it in plastic wrap, and set it aside to rest while you prepare the filling.

6. Step 6

   Now, let’s make that scrumptious filling! In a food processor, combine dried figs, toasted almonds, apricot preserves, golden raisins, candied orange peel, chocolate chips, dark rum, and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.

7. Step 7

   Process everything until it’s finely chopped.

8. Step 8

   If your figs are a bit tough, don’t worry—just soak them in boiling water for about 15 minutes to soften them up before processing.

9. Step 9

   While you’re at it, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and warm when your treats are ready to bake.

10. Step 10

    In a small bowl, whisk together a beaten egg and some milk to create a lovely egg wash that will give your cookies a beautiful golden finish.

11. Step 11

    Now, let’s get rolling! Divide your dough into 12 equal pieces.

12. Step 12

    On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece into a rectangle about 3x12 inches.

13. Step 13

    Brush each strip lightly with the egg wash to add a touch of shine.

14. Step 14

    Place a generous strip of your fruit mixture down the center of each dough piece, then fold the edges over to enclose the filling.

15. Step 15

    Gently roll the dough to seal it and elongate the filled piece.

16. Step 16

    Cut each tube into 3-inch pieces, and for a fun touch, make a 1-inch slit down the center of each cut end, spreading the ends out to form an 'X' shape.

17. Step 17

    This little detail not only looks great but also helps the filling peek out while baking! Arrange your cookies on lightly greased cookie sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between them.

18. Step 18

    Bake your delightful creations in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown.

19. Step 19

    Once they’re done, let the cookies cool on the tray for at least 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

20. Step 20

    For the final touch, dust them with a sprinkle of confectioners' sugar before serving.

21. Step 21

    Enjoy the delightful flavors and the smiles they bring to your table!.