Danish Prune Bar Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 25 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: Danish

Delicious Danish prune bar cookies combine sweet prunes and crunchy walnuts in a tender, sweet brownie-like treat perfect for snack times or dessert gatherings.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup pitted prunes, chopped
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 eggs, well beaten

Instructions

  1. Mix well the chopped prunes, chopped walnuts, brown sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Fold the mixture into the well-beaten eggs.
  3. Spread the batter into a greased 7 x 10 1/2-inch pan.
  4. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 25 to 30 minutes.
  5. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
  6. Cut into small bars and roll in powdered sugar.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter. If you don't have walnuts, pecans or almonds can be great substitutes. Ensure the prunes are finely chopped to distribute evenly throughout the bars. For a more decadent treat, try drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled bars before rolling in powdered sugar.

Serving Suggestions

These Danish Prune Bar Cookies are delightful on their own but can also be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert. Consider serving them with fresh fruit to create a balanced plate, especially alongside a light salad for a refreshing contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store the cooled prune bar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their freshness for up to two weeks. To enjoy them warm, gently reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Danish Prune Bar Cookies contains roughly 107 calories, with 1g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

107 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.5g 3% DV
Total Fat 0.8g 1% DV
Carbs 24.1g 9% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 9.7g 19% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 401.3mg 17% DV
Potassium 76.5mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 25.8mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6.4mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Calcium 76.6mg 6% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

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 dried figs instead of prunes?

Yes, dried figs can be a delicious substitute for prunes in this recipe. They will impart a different flavor but will still provide the sweet, chewy texture that complements the walnuts. Just chop them similarly to how you would prepare the prunes.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Danish Prune Bar Cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for proper binding. Additionally, check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What is the best way to serve these cookies?

The best way to serve these cookies is to cut them into small bars and dust them with powdered sugar just before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them a versatile treat for gatherings or as a sweet snack any time of day.

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).

Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →