Fig and Almond Biscuits

Fig and Almond Biscuits are delightful treats, perfect to accompany tea or for a sweet break during the day. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

  • 250 g of all-purpose flour
  • 125 g of butter at room temperature
  • 100 g of sugar
  • 1 egg (at room temperature)
  • 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 1 pinch of salt
  • 80 g of ground almonds (you can also use those with the skin for a more intense flavor)
  • 100 g of chopped dried figs
  • Grated zest of 1 untreated lemon

Preparation

  1. In a large bowl, cream the butter with the sugar until fluffy.
  2. Add the egg and continue to mix until well incorporated into the dough.
  3. Mix in the sifted flour, baking powder, salt, and grated lemon zest. Work the dough until it is uniform.
  4. Add the chopped almonds and dried figs. Ensure these ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  5. Shape the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat the oven to 180 °C.
  7. Take the dough out of the fridge and form small biscuits into the desired shape. You could make small balls and flatten them slightly, or create sticks or discs.
  8. Place the biscuits on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them.
  9. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are slightly golden.
  10. Remove from the oven and let the biscuits cool on a wire rack before serving.

Curiosity

Figs have played an ancient role in the culinary history of the Mediterranean and were among the first fruits to be cultivated by man. The combination with almonds is typical of Italian gastronomy, especially in Sicily, where these ingredients are often used together in many preparations, from sweets to savory dishes.

Fig and Almond Biscuits