Oatmeal Fig Bars

Steps

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the dried figs, water, and orange juice. Over medium heat, and stirring occasionally, cook the mixture for about 10-12 minutes. The figs should be soft and have absorbed some of the liquid.

2. Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla, allow to cool for 15 minutes. Pour mixture into a blender or food processor and blend until the mixture is smooth and no chunks remain. Set aside

3. At this point, prepare an 8 inch square baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray and set aside, preheat your oven to 350° fahrenheit.

4. In a large bowl, using a hand mixer, whisk together melted butter, sugar, and egg. In a separate bowl whisk together oats, flour, baking powder, and spices.

5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. The mixture will become hard to mix with a whisk, you may want to switch to a large spoon or spatula to finish mixing

6. Spread your crust evenly into your prepared pan, pack down slightly to even it out.

7. In a food processor, add all your ingredients and pulse until all the ingredients are well mixed and no chunks of butter or patches of dry ingredients should remain.

8. Spread your fig filling evenly over the top of your crust lined pan, sprinkle the topping over the top of the filling and bake in your pre heated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is an even golden brown.

9. Enjoy fresh or keep at room temperature in an airtight container for up to a week.