Homemade Fig Bars

Filling:
1 cup sugar
8 oz. California dried figs, finely chopped
1/2 cup nuts, finely chopped (optional)
1/2 cup water

Combine sugar, California dried figs, nuts and water in a medium saucepan. Heat to boiling; reduce heat and summer 10 minutes or until thickened, stirring frequently. Set aside to cool.

Crumb crust and topping:
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup margarine or butter
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, divided
1 3/4 cups rolled oats

Cream sugar and margarine together until light and fluffy. Add salt and vanilla; mix until blended. Stir in 1 3/4 cups flour and oats until well mixed and crumbly.

Spread and pat two-thirds flour mixture evenly into ungreased 9x13x2-inch pan. Spread filling evenly on top.

Add 1/2 cup flour to remaining flour mixture; crumble and spread all over.

Bake at 350F for 25-30 minutes, or until lightly brown. Allow to cool in pan; cut into bars.

Makes 30 bars
Source: California Fig Advisory Board