Apricot Raisin Bars
Sweet and chewy apricot raisin bars feature a spiced apple and fruit filling, perfect for a delightful snack or dessert to satisfy fruit lovers and snack enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine vegetable oil, molasses, egg, and vanilla in a mixing bowl and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, apple pie spice, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the molasses mixture, stirring well to combine.
- Stir in raisins, chopped dried apricots, and grated apples.
- Spread the mixture in a 9-inch square pan coated with vegetable cooking spray.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until done.
- Let cool, then cut into 1 1/2-inch squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. You can also use honey or agave syrup instead of molasses for a different flavor profile. If you don't have apple pie spice, a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg works well. Ensure your grated apples are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the bars.
Serving Suggestions
These apricot raisin bars are delicious on their own, but they pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream salad dressing for added richness. Consider serving them alongside a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. For a fun dessert, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover apricot 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 microwave a square for 10-15 seconds, or enjoy them cold for a refreshing snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Raisin Bars contains roughly 76 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 5g 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 fresh apricots instead of dried?
Fresh apricots can be used, but they have a higher water content, which may affect the texture of the bars. If using fresh, be sure to chop them finely and reduce the amount of grated apples to maintain the right consistency.
What can I substitute for molasses?
If you don't have molasses, you can use dark corn syrup or honey as a substitute. Keep in mind that these alternatives will change the flavor slightly, but they will still provide sweetness and moisture to the bars.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are golden brown on the edges and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to a dry texture.
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).