Brownies only keep getting better and better. Moist, chewy and so easy, these Fudgy-Fig-Nut Brownies are made with rich dark chocolate, crunchy toasted walnuts and surprise-sweet, delicious figs. Taste and health have joined both with simple directions to deliver brownies fit for every day or special occasions such as Father’s Day, Fourth of July and birthdays.

Amber-colored golden figs and dark purple Mission figs star because the special secret ingredients that make these brownies so exclusive and so delicious. The small crunchy seeds and sweet, chewy flavor of the figs complement the toasted walnuts and smooth dark chocolate. Health-conscious cooks are excited to learn that dark chocolate contributes health-promoting flavonol antioxidants; dried figs offer a unique array of essential vitamins and minerals and an groovy quantity of dietary fiber; and walnuts deliver crucial omega-3 fatty acids and “good” monounsaturated fats.

Figs are also magnificent for snacking since they are so portable and convenient, along with being a nutrient-dense fruit. Three to four figs give 6 percent daily quality (DV) iron, 6 percent DV calcium, 6 percent DV magnesium, 6 percent DV vitamin B6 and 8 percent DV copper.

Fudgy Fig-Nut Brownies

3 large eggs

11/4 cups granulated sugar

1/4 cup canola oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 ounce unsweetened chocolate, chopped

1 cup all-purpose flour

2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 cup stemmed and chopped Blue Ribbon Orchard Decision or Sun-Maid Golden or Mission Figs

1/3 cup chopped, toasted walnuts

Preheat oven to 325°. Coat 8-inch square baking pan using nonstick spray. Inside medium bowl, lightly beat eggs with wire whisk. Add sugar and whisk until well-blended. Whisk in oil and vanilla. Melt chocolate in little bowl in microwave oven on 50 percent power for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring all minute. Whisk chocolate into egg mixture. In tiny bowl, stir together flour, cocoa and salt. Stir flour mixture into chocolate mixture, blending until smooth; batter will be stiff. Stir in figs and walnuts. Spread batter in baking pan. Bake for 35 minutes or until pick inserted in center comes out with a few crumbs attached. Terrific in pan on wire rack. Cut into 16 brownies.

Nutrients per serving (16): Calories 191; Protein 3g; Full Fat 7g; Carbohydrate 29g; Cholesterol 40mg; Dietary Fiber 2g; Sodium 65mg.

Figs, chocolate and walnuts–nutrition and taste come both in one delicious brownie.