Candlestick Bars
Candlestick Bars are festive gingerbread treats with raisins and candied fruits, topped with creamy frosting and decorated with gumdrop candlesticks, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the gingerbread mix and applesauce in a bowl.
- Beat with an electric mixer or spoon for 2 minutes at medium speed.
- Stir in raisins and chopped candied fruits and peels.
- Spread the batter in a greased 15 1/2 x 10 1/2 x 1-inch pan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
- Prepare the frosting according to package directions, substituting lemon juice for half of the liquid.
- Spread the frosting on the cooled bars.
- Cut into 1 x 1 1/2-inch bars.
- Decorate with gumdrop candlesticks.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. You can substitute the white creamy frosting mix with a homemade cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist. If you prefer, swap raisins for chopped nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste. Ensure the pan is well-greased to prevent sticking when you bake these bars.
Serving Suggestions
These candlestick bars are delightful as a festive dessert, especially during holiday gatherings. Serve them alongside a warm beverage, such as spiced cider or coffee, for a comforting treat. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of Harolyn'S Peach Ice Cream for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover candlestick 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, place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore its softness, making it perfect for a cozy snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candlestick Bars contains roughly 765 calories, with 8g protein, 161g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value), potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 702mg per serving (31% 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 use homemade gingerbread instead of gingerbread mix?
Absolutely! You can substitute homemade gingerbread for the mix. Just ensure it's well-balanced in spices and moisture to achieve the right consistency and flavor in the bars. Adjust the applesauce slightly if your gingerbread is drier or wetter than the mix.
What can I use instead of mixed candied fruits?
If you don't have mixed candied fruits, consider using dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or figs. You can also make your own mix by combining your favorite dried fruits and adding a bit of zest for extra flavor. This will still give the bars a delightful sweetness and texture.
How can I make these bars more festive?
To add a festive touch, consider decorating the bars with colorful sprinkles or edible glitter after frosting. You can also create themed decorations with gumdrops shaped like candles for a fun presentation. Pairing them with a holiday-themed drink will elevate the festive spirit even more.
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).