Florence'S Fruit Bars
Florence's Fruit Bars are sweet, spicy treats packed with raisins and warm cinnamon, perfect for snacking or sharing during holidays and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, shortening, eggs, molasses, vanilla, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and raisins until well combined.
- On two cookie sheets, shape the dough into two rows, each about 1/2-inch thick, 1 1/2 inches wide, and the full length of the pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are golden.
- While baking, the dough will become irregular in shape.
- When about half the baking time has passed, push the dough back into shape with a metal spatula.
- Remove from oven and cut into diagonal pieces while hot with a sharp knife.
- Take the bars off the cookie sheets and let cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar, or adding chopped nuts like walnuts for extra texture. You can substitute the raisins with dried cranberries or apricots for a different twist. Ensure the shortening is at room temperature for easier mixing. If you're short on time, you can use a stand mixer to make the dough quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these fruit bars as a delightful snack or dessert, perfect for lunchboxes or afternoon tea. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For an added treat, top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter alongside items like the Large Peach Cobbler.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fruit bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold for a chewy treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Florence'S Fruit Bars contains roughly 195 calories, with 1g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of potassium (11% 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 sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute sugar with honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind that this may alter the texture. Reduce the amount slightly since these are sweeter. Adjust the flour accordingly to maintain the proper consistency of the dough.
How can I make these bars more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon. You can also incorporate citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to brighten the taste. Dried fruit combinations can also add a delightful complexity to the flavor profile.
Can I make these fruit bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend includes xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients together. Keep an eye on the baking time, as gluten-free flours may require slight adjustments for texture.
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).