Chewy Fruitcake Bars
Chewy Fruitcake Bars combine candied fruits, coconut, and nuts in a sweet, chewy base, perfect for festive gatherings or a flavorful snack any time of year.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix baking mix and sugar; cut in margarine thoroughly.
- Press mixture with floured hands into an ungreased jelly roll pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle coconut over the baked layer.
- Layer candied fruit and snipped dates over the coconut.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts over the fruit.
- Drizzle milk over the top.
- Bake until light golden brown, 25 to 30 minutes; cool completely.
- Cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, consider using more dates or adding in some dried fruit like apricots or cranberries. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute the nuts with additional coconut or seeds. Make sure to pack the mixture tightly in the jelly roll pan for even baking. For a flavor boost, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These Chewy Fruitcake Bars make a delightful treat for holiday gatherings and pair beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee. For an extra indulgence, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a slice of Amazing Coconut Pie(Quick And Easy) for a dessert spread. They also work well as a snack for picnics or lunch boxes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Chewy Fruitcake Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If desired, you can freeze the bars, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chewy Fruitcake Bars contains roughly 477 calories, with 6g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and calcium (10% 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 fresh fruit instead of candied fruit?
While fresh fruit can add a nice flavor, it may introduce extra moisture, affecting the texture of the bars. If you want to use fresh fruit, consider drying or dehydrating it first. Alternatively, stick with the candied fruit for that classic chewy texture and sweetness.
What can I substitute for Bisquick baking mix?
If you don't have Bisquick, you can create a homemade version by mixing 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable shortening. This will give you a similar consistency suitable for the recipe.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make these bars gluten-free by substituting the Bisquick baking mix with a gluten-free baking mix. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially any added nuts and fruits, are certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
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).