Cake Bars

Prep: 10 min Cook: 45 min Cuisine: American

Sweet and fruity cake bars featuring a buttery crust, topped with crushed fruit and brown sugar, perfect for dessert or teatime enjoyment.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cake mix
  • 8 oz drained crushed fruit
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup soft butter

Instructions

  1. Cut 1/2 cup soft butter into the cake mix and press into the bottom of a cake pan.
  2. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until browned.
  3. Spread drained crushed fruit evenly over the baked crust.
  4. Sprinkle brown sugar on top of the fruit layer.
  5. Bake an additional 20 to 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
  6. Cool for 30 minutes before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter mixture. If you don’t have brown sugar, granulated sugar can work as a substitute, but the bars may lack some of the rich molasses flavor. You can also use different fruits like peaches or berries depending on your preference or what’s in season, creating a delicious variation of this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

These cake bars are delightful on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. They also pair beautifully with Pat'S Fruit Dip for a fresh twist. Consider presenting them on a dessert platter alongside cookies or brownies for a sweet gathering.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cake bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until warm, which enhances the flavors and makes them soft again.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cake Bars contains roughly 602 calories, with 2g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 30g fat.

602 kcal 30% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.7g 3% DV
Total Fat 30.3g 39% DV
Carbs 82.8g 30% DV
Fiber 0.8g 3% DV
Sugar 65.6g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 207.6mg 9% DV
Potassium 126mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 90mg 30% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.3mcg
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Calcium 86.3mg 7% DV
Iron 0.6mg 4% DV
Contains Milk

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 gluten-free cake mix for this recipe?

Yes, a gluten-free cake mix can be used as a substitute. Just ensure that all other ingredients, including any added flavors or toppings, are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the recipe.

What type of fruit works best in this recipe?

While crushed pineapple or peaches are popular choices, you can also experiment with apples or mixed berries. Just make sure to drain the fruit thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture.

Can I freeze these cake bars for later?

Absolutely! These cake bars freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

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).

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