Ready for a simple, sweet treat? These honey-roasted figs are incredibly easy to make and taste absolutely divine. They’re perfect as a light dessert, a topping for yogurt, or even alongside some cheese.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Fresh Figs: Choose ripe, but firm figs. Black Mission or Brown Turkey figs work well. Avoid overly soft or bruised figs.
- Honey: Any type of honey works here. Maple syrup is a good vegan alternative.
- Olive Oil: A light olive oil is best. You can also use melted coconut oil or a neutral-flavored oil like avocado oil.
- Optional Toppings: A pinch of cinnamon, a sprinkle of chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans), or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Ingredients:
- 8-10 fresh figs
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Pinch of salt (optional, but enhances sweetness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 2-4
- Tools Needed: Baking sheet, parchment paper (optional), small bowl, pastry brush (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Figs
First, gently wash your figs and pat them dry. Trim off the tough stem ends. Then, cut each fig in half lengthwise.
2. Coat the Figs
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and olive oil. If using, add a tiny pinch of salt to this mixture. Arrange the fig halves, cut-side up, on a baking sheet. You can line the sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Drizzle or brush the honey mixture evenly over all the fig halves.
3. Roast the Figs
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Roast for about 12-15 minutes, or until the figs are tender and slightly caramelized around the edges. The honey should be bubbling and lightly browned.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the figs from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. These honey-roasted figs are wonderful warm, plain, or with your favorite toppings like a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover honey-roasted figs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold, or gently warm them in the microwave for 30-60 seconds before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use dried figs for this recipe?
A: This recipe is best with fresh figs. Dried figs have a different texture and rehydrate unevenly when roasted.
Q: How do I know if my figs are ripe?
A: Ripe figs will be soft to the touch and slightly yielding when gently squeezed. They may also have small cracks in their skin.
Q: Do I need to peel the figs?
A: No, the skin of figs is edible and softens during roasting.
Q: Can I add spices to the figs?
A: Absolutely! A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a tiny amount of ground ginger would be delicious with the honey-roasted figs.
Q: What can I serve these figs with?
A: Honey-roasted figs are fantastic with Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, oatmeal, ice cream, or even on a cheese board.
Q: My figs look a bit burnt. What happened?
A: They might have roasted a little too long or at too high a temperature. Keep a close eye on them, especially after 10 minutes, as ovens can vary.