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–+ servings

Zesty Citrus Fig Squares

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Bright, naturally sweet, and bursting with citrus flavor, these Zesty Citrus Fig Squares combine tender figs with fresh orange and lemon for a wholesome dessert that's both nourishing and satisfying. Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and naturally occurring sweetness, these soft-baked fruit squares offer a refreshing twist on traditional dessert bars. Perfect for afternoon tea, healthy snacks, lunch boxes, brunch spreads, or mindful desserts, this easy recipe celebrates the vibrant flavors of fresh citrus and seasonal figs in every delicious bite.
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Prep Time 12 minutes
Bake Time 20 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 12 Squares
Course: Dessert, Snack
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1½ cup Rolled Oats
  • 1 cup Dried Figs, chopped
  • ½ cup Almonds or Cashews, chopped
  • 1 Lemon or Orange Zest
  • ¼ cup Maple Syrup or Honey
  • ¼ cup Coconut Oil, melted
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (optional)
  • Pinch of Sea Salt
Optional Toppings
  • Shredded Coconut
  • Chia Seeds
  • Fig Jam
  • Extra Citrus Zest

Method
 

Tap the time in each step to start a build-in timer and cook with a little more ease and flow. Be sure to have your volume up to hear the timer chimes!

    1. Mix the Base:

      In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped figs, nuts, citrus zest, and salt.
      Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
      🌿 Mindful Moment: Notice the different colours, textures, and shapes of each ingredient. Observe how unique pieces come together to create something nourishing.
      🧒 Kid Prompt: "What do the fig pieces look like? Ttiny jewels, pebbles, or little stars?"
      💬 Reflective Prompt: "What parts of your life feel beautifully different, yet belong together?"

    2. Bind & Sweeten:

      Add in the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla.
      Stir slowly until every oat is lightly coated and the mixture becomes sticky.
      🌿 Mindful Moment: Watch separate ingredients transform into one mixture. Notice how gentle stirring creates connection.
      🧒 Kid Prompt: "Can you stir slowly like you're making a magic potion?"
      💬 Reflective Prompt: "What helps you feel connected to yourself or the people you love?"

    3. Press & Bake:

      Line an 8 × 8-inch (20 × 20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper.
      Press the mixture firmly into an even layer.
      Bake at 175°C (350°F) for 18–20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
      🌿 Mindful Moment: Feel the gentle pressure of your hands as you press the mixture into the pan. Steady, even pressure creates a strong foundation.
      🧒 Kid Prompt: "Can you make the top as smooth as a calm lake?"
      💬 Reflective Prompt: "Where in your life could a little patience help something grow?"

    4. Cool & Cut:

      Allow the bars to cool completely before removing them from the pan and slicing into squares.
      🌿 Mindful Moment: Notice the practice of waiting. Cooling allows everything to settle and strengthen before being shared.
      🧒 Kid Prompt: "What changes do you notice while the bars cool?"
      💬 Reflective Prompt: "When have you discovered that waiting made something even better?"

    Nutrition

    Calories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 3gFat: 7g

    Notes

    Note: the nutritional content is an approx. per square with no additional toppings. This snack is rich in fiber, Vitamin C and Potassium. 
     
    Kid Friendly: This recipe is great for kids, it is sweet, chewy, and fun to help zest.
    Therapeutic Focus: Combines grounding sweetness with bright citrus uplift.
    Batch Ready: Easy to make ahead of time and freeze, perfect to pull out for lunchboxes or snack prep.

     

    Tips & Tricks

    • Extra chewy: Add in 2 Tbsp of your favourite nut butter.
    • Nut-free: Replace the almonds and cashews with pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
    • Deeper flavour: Add in some cardamom or cinnamon to bring out an even richer flavour. 

     

    Storage & Serving

    Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 1 week.
    Freezer: Freeze great for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
     

    Variations 

    • Chocolate Citrus Bars: Add in 2 Tbsp of cocoa powder.
    • Tropical Fig Squares: Add in some dried pineapple and coconut.
    • Spiced Winter Squares: Add in cloves and nutmeg.

     

    Drink Recommendations 

    Family Friendly
    • Herbal rooibos tea with orange peel
    • Chamomile with honey
    • Fresh citrus water
    Adult Pairings
    • Prosecco with orange twist
    • Sweet dessert wine
    • Spiced rum citrus cocktail

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    Let us know how it was!