For Filling: With scissors, snip stems off figs and cut figs into small pieces. Combine with remaining ingredients in saucepan. Stir constantly over medium heat until thickened. Add more sugar to taste. Spread as suggested below, or use as a filling for white layer cake.

Fig Garden Party Cakes: Make or buy individual sponge cakes, or make a large sponge cake and cut it into layers. Or use lady fingers. Fill the layers and spread the top with this delicious filling. Garnish with whipped cream and pass a bowl of whipped, sweetened and vanilla-flavored cream.

Reprinted with the permission of The California Fig Advisory Board Electronic format courtesy of Karen Mintzias