Frosty Fruit Bars
Frosty Fruit Bars offer a delightful blend of fruity sweetness and warm spices, perfect for a refreshing treat or snack. The combination of raisins, nuts, and citrus zest creates a nostalgic flavor profile that appeals to all ages, making it ideal for casual gatherings or quick homemade desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together thoroughly the shortening, sugar, egg, and orange rind.
- Stir in the pineapple or orange juice.
- Sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add to the shortening mixture and mix well.
- Add raisins and chopped nuts and mix together.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. If you don't have raisins, dried cranberries work well as an alternative. For a spicier flavor, increase the cinnamon and nutmeg slightly. If you're looking to add more fruit, chopped dried apricots or dates can enhance the recipe. This dessert can be enjoyed chilled, making it perfect for summer gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
These Frosty Fruit Bars make a delightful snack or dessert on their own. They pair beautifully with a refreshing cup of herbal tea or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Cherry Cheesecakes at a party or gathering. They are also great for picnics due to their portability.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Frosty Fruit Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frosty Fruit Bars contains roughly 1070 calories, with 11g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. To achieve a lighter bar, consider using a mix of half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.
What can I use instead of shortening?
You can substitute shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that butter will add a richer taste and slightly alter the texture.
How can I make these bars more festive for a holiday party?
To make these bars more festive, you can add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, and incorporate seasonal spices like ginger or allspice. Drizzling a simple icing on top or adding colorful sprinkles can also elevate their appearance for holiday gatherings.
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).