Figgy Duff

Figgy Duff

Serves 6 615 kcal per serving Prep 20 min Cook 2 h

Ingredients

  • 2 cups All purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
  • 2 tsp Baking Powder
  • 1 tsp Ginger
  • 1 tsp Allspice
  • 1 tsp Cinnamon
  • 1 cup Raisins
  • 1/3 cup Melted Butter
  • 1/2 cup Molasses
  • 1 tablespoon Water

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F / 180°C. Grease an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan.
  2. To prepare the filling, combine the dates and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to the boil over high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until thick and smooth, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from the heat, stir in the vanilla and set aside to cool.
  3. For the base and topping, place the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder and salt in a food processor. Pulse briefly just to combine, avoiding a fine texture. Add the butter and pulse again until the mixture is crumbly with small clumps. Transfer to a bowl and mix through if needed.
  4. Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even base. Spread the cooled date filling evenly over the crust, then scatter the remaining oat mixture on top and press lightly to level.
  5. Bake in the centre of the oven for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden brown. Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze for longer storage.

Tips

  • Ensure the pudding bag or cloth is well-floured before adding the batter to prevent the pudding from sticking.
  • Keep the water at a steady simmer throughout the cooking time; do not let the pot boil dry.
  • Let the pudding rest for 10 minutes after removing it from the pot to make it easier to slice.

Variations

  • Spice Mix: Add a teaspoon of ground cloves or allspice for a warmer, more festive flavor profile.
  • Fruit Swap: Use raisins or sultanas if dried figs are unavailable; in Newfoundland, ‘figgy’ often refers to raisins.

Storage

Store in the fridge for up to 5 days. It is even better the next day when sliced and fried in a little butter.

Serving Suggestions

  • Traditionally served as part of a Jiggs Dinner with salt beef and boiled vegetables.
  • Enjoy as a dessert with a warm molasses sauce or thick custard.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a 'Duff'?

A ‘duff’ is a traditional steamed or boiled pudding, often associated with maritime and Newfoundland cuisine.

Is there actual fig in Figgy Duff?

Traditionally, in Newfoundland, ‘figs’ was a colloquial term for raisins, though modern versions often use actual dried figs.

Can I steam it in a basin instead of a bag?

Yes, a greased pudding basin covered with foil works just as well as the traditional cloth bag.

instructions_source: editorial-classic