Figs have been much used in southern California since the mission period. This recipe calls for bringing the syrup to the hard crack stage (300-310°).
Boil the sugar and water together without stirring (after the sugar dissolves) until it hardens and becomes brittle when dropped in cold water; then add the lemon juice. Wash and open the figs; lay them in a square, shallow pan, greased greased well with butter. Pour the sugar syrup over the figs. When nearly cold, mark out in narrow strips with a knife.