Cashew Fig Rolls are a tasty treat that combine sweet figs and crunchy cashews, all wrapped in a soft dough. They are perfect for a snack or a light dessert!
These rolls are super easy to make, and I love enjoying them with a cup of tea. Plus, the mix of flavors makes them a hit at snack time—who can resist that combo of sweet and crunchy?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cashews: Finely ground cashews give these rolls a rich texture. If you’re allergic to nuts, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a substitute, grinding them to a similar consistency.
Dried Figs: They provide natural sweetness and stickiness. If you can’t find figs, dates work well too! Just chop or puree them similarly for that sweet flavor.
Whole Wheat Flour: This adds a nutty taste and is healthier. All-purpose flour can replace it for a softer, fluffier roll. If you’re gluten-free, use almond flour or a gluten-free blend instead.
Powdered Sugar/Jaggery Powder: Both add sweetness. Jaggery gives a richer flavor. For a healthier option, use coconut sugar or maple sugar, adjusting to taste.
Ghee: It brings a unique flavor; however, unsalted butter works just as well. For a vegan option, you could substitute coconut oil.
What’s the Best Way to Knead and Roll the Dough?
Kneading the dough properly ensures a good texture. Start by mixing until it’s crumbly, then add milk gradually to form a soft dough. Take your time—over-kneading can make the rolls tough.
- Cover the dough and let it rest to relax the gluten. This is key for easier rolling.
- When rolling out the dough, use light pressure. Aim for 1/4 inch thickness—this helps it hold the filling without tearing.
- When you spread the fig-cashew paste, leave a little border around the edges to make rolling easier.
How to Make Cashew Fig Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rolls:
- 1 cup cashews, finely ground
- 1 cup dried figs, chopped finely or pureed
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour for a softer texture)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar or jaggery powder
- 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter) or unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp cardamom powder
- 1-2 tbsp milk (optional, to knead dough)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder (optional, for lightness)
- 1-2 tbsp sugar mixed with 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder (for rolling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and 20-30 minutes to rest the dough. Allow additional chilling time if desired. In total, you can expect to spend about 1 hour to make and serve these scrumptious Cashew Fig Rolls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, powdered sugar or jaggery powder, cardamom powder, and baking powder (if using). Stir everything together until well mixed. Then, add the melted ghee and mix until you achieve a crumbly texture.
2. Knead the Dough:
Gradually add the milk, little by little, while kneading the mixture to form a soft dough. Be sure not to add too much liquid at once. Once the dough is formed, cover it with a cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for 20-30 minutes; this helps make it easier to roll out later.
3. Make the Filling:
While the dough is resting, prepare the fig-cashew filling. Grind the cashews into a coarse powder if you haven’t already. In a separate bowl, mix the ground cashews with the chopped or pureed figs until you have a thick, sticky paste. If the mixture seems too dry, gently warm it in a pan to help soften it.
4. Roll Out the Dough:
Once rested, place the dough on a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Use light, even pressure to avoid tearing. It’s important to roll it evenly for consistent baking.
5. Fill and Roll:
Spread the fig-cashew paste evenly over the rolled-out dough. Make sure to cover the entire surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Then, starting from one edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log, making sure the filling stays in.
6. Slice the Rolls:
Using a sharp knife, cut the log into 1-inch thick slices. You should end up with several bite-sized pieces of deliciousness!
7. Coat with Sugar and Cinnamon:
On a plate, spread out the sugar mixed with cinnamon. Gently roll each slice in this mixture to coat all sides, adding an extra touch of sweetness and flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the rolls on a serving plate. If desired, chill them in the fridge for about 15 minutes to help them set before serving. Enjoy your delightful Cashew Fig Rolls as a sweet snack or dessert!
Can I Use Different Nuts Instead of Cashews?
Absolutely! You can substitute cashews with almonds, walnuts, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Just make sure to grind them to a similar consistency for the filling.
What Should I Do if My Dough is Too Sticky?
If your dough is sticky after kneading, simply dust it with a little extra flour until it reaches a manageable consistency. Avoid adding too much flour at once to maintain the desired texture!
How Can I Store Leftover Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Just layer them with parchment paper and keep them in a freezer-safe container for up to a month.
Can I Add Other Flavors to the Filling?
Definitely! Adding ingredients like chopped nuts, cocoa powder, or even a dash of vanilla extract can enhance the flavor of your filling. Just keep the overall consistency smooth and sticky to maintain the roll structure.
