Afternoon Delight Fig Bars

Preparation

1. Begin by making the topping. It can be refrigerated while finishing the dough and filling.
2. Cut stems off of figs and chop into small pieces (by hand or in a food processor)

Dough

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Lighty grease a 9-inch square pan with a dab of butter.
2. In small bowl, beat 1/2 cup butter, 1/4 cup granulated sugar and the vanilla with electric mixer on medium speed until well blended.
3. On low speed, beat in 1 cup flour until soft dough forms.

4. Press dough in bottom of pan. Bake 10 to 15 minutes or until center is set.

Filling

1. While dough is baking, cook filling ingredients over medium-high heat 5 to 10 minutes in a medium saucepan. Stir frequently until figs are tender and most of liquid is absorbed. Spread over crust.

Topping

1. In small bowl, mix 1/4 cup flour, the brown sugar and 3 tablespoons butter,

2. Use a pastry blender, fork, or whisk on an electric mixer to blend until crumbly. Stir in oats and walnuts (if using). Sprinkle over filling.

3. Bake 15 to 20 minutes longer or until edges are bubbly and topping is light golden brown. Cool completely, about 1 hour. For bars, cut into 4 rows by 4 rows.