Applesauce-Raisin Bars
Delicious applesauce-raisin bars combine moistness and sweetness with a hint of spice, perfect for a quick snack or dessert that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease an oblong pan (13 x 9 x 2 inches).
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly; spread in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
- Frost with Buttercream Frosting.
- Cut into bars about 3 x 1 inches.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half whole wheat flour. If you want to enhance the flavor, add chopped nuts or use cinnamon instead of pumpkin pie spice. You can substitute the shortening with unsalted butter or coconut oil for a richer taste. Ensure the applesauce is unsweetened to control the overall sweetness of the bars.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert and pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a more indulgent experience, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also make a great addition to a picnic or potluck, alongside dishes like Frozen Mint Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover applesauce-raisin bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them chilled for a refreshing treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Applesauce-Raisin Bars contains roughly 114 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
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 use a different type of sweetener instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or honey, but adjust the quantity as needed since these sweeteners may vary in sweetness. Keep in mind that honey may add moisture, so reduce the applesauce slightly.
What can I use instead of raisins?
If you're not a fan of raisins, you can substitute them with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or even chocolate chips for a sweeter twist. Dried cherries or apricots also work well and add a nice flavor contrast.
How can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free applesauce-raisin bars, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure other ingredients, like baking soda and spices, are also gluten-free. This will provide a similar texture while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
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).