Fruit And Nut Squares(Sugar-Free)
These sugar-free fruit and nut squares are chewy, flavorful treats filled with dried fruits and nuts, perfect for a healthy snack or dessert option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, soda, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- In a 3-quart saucepan, over medium heat, bring water, prunes, dates, and raisins to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add margarine. Stir until melted and cooled.
- Stir in beaten eggs and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and fold in nuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased square dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a different flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or swapping in whole wheat flour for added nutrition. You can also use any combination of dried fruits like apricots or figs instead of prunes, dates, and raisins. If you prefer a sweeter taste, a sugar substitute like stevia can be added. This recipe is great for making ahead and can be easily frozen for later enjoyment.
Serving Suggestions
These fruit and nut squares make a delightful snack on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a dollop of yogurt or a scoop of ice cream for dessert. For a more substantial meal, serve them alongside a fruit salad or with a cup of tea. They are perfect for lunchboxes or as a quick energy boost during the day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fruit and nut squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit And Nut Squares(Sugar-Free) contains roughly 295 calories, with 4g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make these fruit and nut squares vegan by substituting the eggs with flaxseed meal. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. Also, ensure that the margarine you use is dairy-free.
What can I use instead of margarine?
If you prefer not to use margarine, you can substitute it with coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce. Coconut oil will provide a similar texture and flavor, while applesauce will make the squares slightly moister and lower in fat.
How do I know when the squares are done baking?
You can check if the fruit and nut squares are done baking by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, they are ready. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to dry squares.
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).