Fantasy Fruit Bars
Sweet and tangy Fantasy Fruit Bars combine lemon Starburst, oats, nuts, and coconut in a layered bar that offers a delightful treat for dessert lovers and snack enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the yellow cake mix, quick oats, melted margarine, and egg in a bowl.
- Save 1 1/4 cups of the mixture for topping.
- Press the remaining mixture into a 15 x 10-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Cool slightly.
- Heat the Starburst pieces and sweetened condensed milk in a heavy pan over low heat until melted and smooth.
- Pour the candy mixture over the semi-baked crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edge.
- Mix the reserved crumbs, chopped nuts, and coconut together.
- Sprinkle this mixture over the candy layer.
- Bake for an additional 18 to 22 minutes or until golden.
- Cool completely before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewy texture, ensure to mix the melted margarine thoroughly with the cake mix and oats. If you prefer a healthier option, consider replacing half of the margarine with unsweetened applesauce. You can also experiment with different flavored candies like Starburst or use chocolate chips instead for a delicious twist. This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to fit various dietary preferences.
Serving Suggestions
These bars make a delightful snack or dessert and pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them alongside Lemon Meringue Pie(Easy) during gatherings. You can also top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat or pack them in lunchboxes as an on-the-go snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Fantasy Fruit Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them, which can extend their freshness for up to two weeks. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply pop a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fantasy Fruit Bars contains roughly 601 calories, with 8g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value) and potassium (14% 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 a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! You can substitute the yellow cake mix with other flavors like chocolate or white cake mix to create different taste profiles. Just keep in mind that the flavor of the bars will change accordingly, so choose a cake mix that complements the Starburst candy.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-baking, as this can affect the texture.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can make gluten-free Fantasy Fruit Bars by using a gluten-free yellow cake mix and ensuring that the oats are certified gluten-free. This will allow you to enjoy the same delicious flavors while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
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).