National Fig Newton Day 2025

Celebrate National Fig Newton Day with a Homemade Twist! 🍪🎉

Fig lovers, today is your day! January 16th is National Fig Newton Day, and it’s time to celebrate one of the most underrated (but totally delicious) cookies out there. Whether you grew up snacking on Fig Newtons after school or just discovered them as an adult, there’s no denying their soft, jammy, and slightly chewy goodness.

But did you know that Fig Newtons have been around for over 130 years? Yep! These iconic cookies were first made in 1891 and named after Newton, Massachusetts—not Sir Isaac Newton (although, let’s be honest, he probably would’ve loved them too!).

To celebrate, I’m sharing a homemade Fig Newton recipe that’s easy, budget-friendly, and made with real figs for the freshest flavor. So let’s get baking and enjoy this nostalgic treat in the best way possible—fresh from your own kitchen!

Why We Love Fig Newtons

💜 That perfect soft & chewy texture – The best balance of cake-like outside and gooey fig filling.

🍯 Naturally sweet & delicious – Figs are packed with natural sugars, so you don’t need tons of extra sweeteners!

📜 A treat with history – Fig Newtons have been around for over a century, proving they’re a classic for a reason.

💰 Budget-friendly & easy to make – No fancy ingredients, just simple pantry staples!

Ready to make your own? Let’s do this!

Easy Homemade Fig Newtons (Budget-Friendly!)

This recipe brings out all the best parts of Fig Newtons—the soft, cakey outside and the sweet, fruity center. And the best part? You don’t need any artificial flavors or preservatives—just real, wholesome ingredients!

Ingredients (Makes 12-15 cookies):

For the fig filling:

1 ½ cups dried figs, chopped
½ cup water or orange juice
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cookie dough:

1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
⅓ cup brown sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Total Estimated Cost: Around $6.10 (for homemade cookies that taste way better than store-bought!)

Cooking Instructions:

1️⃣ Make the fig filling:

In a small saucepan, combine chopped figs, water (or orange juice), and honey.
Simmer on medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the figs soften.
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, then blend into a smooth paste using a blender or food processor. Let it cool.

2️⃣ Prepare the dough:

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms.
Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes (this makes rolling easier!).

3️⃣ Assemble the cookies:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll out the chilled dough into a 10x8-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
Spread the fig filling in a line down the center.
Fold one side of the dough over the filling, then the other side, sealing the edges.
Cut into small Fig Newton-sized bars.

4️⃣ Bake & Enjoy!

Place the bars seam-side down on the baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, until lightly golden.
Let cool, then enjoy your homemade Fig Newtons!

Fun Ways to Customize Your Fig Newtons

🍊 Citrus Zing: Add orange zest to the dough for a bright, fresh flavor!

🌰 Nutty Crunch: Mix in some finely chopped walnuts into the fig filling.

🍫 Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top for an extra treat.

🌱 Go Vegan: Swap the butter for coconut oil and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.

More Ways to Celebrate National Fig Newton Day

📸 Snap & Share! Show off your homemade Fig Newtons on social media with #FigNewtonDay.

🛒 Try a New Fig Recipe! Figs aren’t just for cookies—try them in oatmeal, salads, or smoothies!

💡 Learn About Figs! Did you know figs are technically flowers, not fruit? Pretty cool, right?!

Get Baking & Enjoy! 🍪

Whether you grew up eating Fig Newtons or just love trying homemade versions of classic treats, National Fig Newton Day is the perfect excuse to whip up a batch of these soft, jammy cookies. They’re simple, nostalgic, and way better than store-bought!

So grab some figs, preheat that oven, and let’s bake up some sweet memories. ❤️

Happy National Fig Newton Day From Good Thyme Gal!

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Looking for a little extra guidance in the kitchen? Whether you're mastering a new recipe or perfecting an old favorite, my Good Thyme Gal YouTube channel is here to help! I share step-by-step tutorials, helpful tips, and fun tricks to make baking easier and more enjoyable. From cookies and cakes to savory treats, you’ll gain the confidence to create something amazing!

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