The crossed figs, the figs stuffed with walnuts, are a Calabrian dessert that tells the story and traditions of a region rich in authentic and genuine flavors. This recipe is rooted in the past when grandmothers prepared these simple and delicious sweets with few but high-quality natural ingredients.
The main ingredients are dried figs and nuts like walnuts or almonds. Sometimes, flavors like cinnamon or citrus zest are added to enhance the taste. Depending on the area of Calabria where they are made, they are prepared differently: some sprinkle them with granulated sugar, some brush them with wine, some with fig must, and some immerse them in rum. The crucial step is baking (or for the more modern, in an air fryer).
Their characteristic cross shape, from which the name derives, is not only a tribute to local religious traditions but also a technique that allows the figs to be preserved for a long time. This dessert was mainly prepared during Christmas holidays or special occasions, but today, thanks to their goodness, they are enjoyed all year round.
If you love rustic and flavorful desserts, crossed figs are the perfect choice. Ideal as a dessert or accompaniment to a good glass of sweet wine, they will make you rediscover the genuine taste of Calabrian traditions. Preparing them at home is simple and will immerse you in a world of ancient traditions and flavors.
Want to try new recipes with figs? Here are some fantastic ideas:
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Very Cheap
- Rest time: 5 Minutes
- Preparation time: 10 Minutes
- Portions: 16 Pieces
- Cooking methods: Oven, Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Energy 66.96 (Kcal)
- Carbohydrates 11.99 (g) of which sugars 9.71 (g)
- Proteins 0.82 (g)
- Fat 2.21 (g) of which saturated 0.02 (g)of which unsaturated 0.07 (g)
- Fibers 1.49 (g)
- Sodium 1.46 (mg)
Indicative values for a portion of 1 g processed in an automated way starting from the nutritional information available on the CREA* and FoodData Central** databases. It is not food and / or nutritional advice.
* CREATES Food and Nutrition Research Center: https://www.crea.gov.it/alimenti-e-nutrizione https://www.alimentinutrizione.it ** U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central, 2019. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov
Ingredients for Crossed Figs
- 7 oz dried figs
- 2 oz walnuts
- 1 orange (zest only)
- as needed granulated sugar
- as needed ground cinnamon
Tools
- Knife
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
How to Make Crossed Figs
To prepare the stuffed figs, wash the organic orange thoroughly, dry it, and use a peeler to take only the orange part of the peel. Cut it into strips and set aside. You can also use lemon. If you don’t have organic fruit, you can opt for candied fruit.
Cut 2 figs in half, and without detaching them, overlap the stems to form a cross. Fill the 4 halves with walnuts and put a piece of orange peel. If you don’t like walnuts, you can also use almonds, or make a mixture of walnuts and almonds. If the figs are too hard, you can work them a bit with your hands to warm them up and make them soft again.
Overlap another 2 figs cut in half, in the same manner as the base, and press well with your hands.
Place the figs on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven, static function, at 392°F for 10 minutes. If you want, you can also use an air fryer and cook at 356°F, in a preheated fryer, for a maximum of 5 minutes. They should only begin to caramelize. If you like them more charred, you can extend the cooking by a few more minutes.
Meanwhile, in a plate, mix the granulated sugar with cinnamon and roll the figs in this mix while still very hot. Let cool, place in sterilized jars, close and store. Enjoy your meal!
Storage
The crossed figs or figs stuffed with walnuts can be stored in a cool and dry place, preferably in an airtight container. If prepared correctly, they can last for several months.
FAQ
Are crossed figs suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, the crossed figs, or figs stuffed with walnuts, can be considered vegan, as they are prepared without the use of animal products.
Can crossed figs be prepared in advance?
Yes, they can be prepared well in advance, making them a great option for gifts or for having a ready-to-serve dessert at any time.
What can crossed figs be served with?
The crossed figs are perfect to enjoy on their own, but they can be served with a glass of sweet wine or as part of a traditional dessert tray.
Do you necessarily have to form the crosses?
No, if you don’t intend to follow the tradition, you can simply stuff them one by one without crossing them.
