Applesauce Bars
Applesauce Bars offer a moist, flavorful treat combining the natural sweetness of applesauce with warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. Raisins and nuts add texture, making these bars perfect for a quick snack or dessert. They suit all ages and are ideal for a wholesome, homemade indulgence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix applesauce, brown sugar, and melted shortening in a bowl.
- Sift in flour, soda, salt, cinnamon, and cloves into the mixture.
- Add raisins and nuts to the batter and stir well.
- Pour the batter into a greased 7 x 11-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting half the shortening with applesauce or yogurt. You can also use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for added nutrition. If you prefer, swap the raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dates for a different flavor profile. Enhance the spice by adding a pinch of nutmeg to the batter.
Serving Suggestions
These applesauce bars are delightful on their own but can also be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also drizzle a simple glaze over the bars or top them with whipped cream for an extra treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover applesauce bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze individual bars wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce Bars contains roughly 443 calories, with 4g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 757mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these applesauce bars vegan?
Yes, you can easily make these bars vegan by replacing the shortening with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. Ensure that the brown sugar you use is also vegan, as some brands process it with bone char. Using unsweetened applesauce will keep the bars moist and delicious.
What can I use instead of raisins?
If you're not a fan of raisins, you can substitute them with any dried fruit you like, such as chopped apricots, cranberries, or even chocolate chips for a sweeter twist. Just make sure to keep the quantity similar to maintain the moisture balance in the recipe.
How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
To check if the applesauce bars are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If the toothpick has wet batter on it, give them a few more minutes in the oven. The edges should be golden and pulling away from the sides of the pan.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).