Fruit Bar
Sweet and hearty fruit bars combine dried mixed fruit, bananas, oats, and cinnamon for a wholesome snack or dessert, perfect for grab-and-go treats and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Combine dried mixed fruit, chopped bananas, orange juice, and ground cinnamon in a medium bowl. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat together margarine and brown sugar until creamy.
- Add wheat flour, oats, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon to the margarine mixture. Beat until crumbly.
- Reserve 3/4 cup of the oats mixture for topping.
- Press the remaining oat mixture into a 13 x 9-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- Spread the fruit mixture evenly over the partially baked crust, within 1/4 inch of the edges.
- Combine chopped nuts with the reserved oats mixture and sprinkle over the fruit layer.
- Pat down lightly to press the topping into the fruit layer.
- Bake for an additional 16 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into 32 bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier option, you can substitute half of the brown sugar with unsweetened applesauce or mashed sweet potatoes. If you're out of margarine, coconut oil or unsalted butter works well. To enhance flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the fruit mixture. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the chopped nuts or replace them with seeds.
Serving Suggestions
These fruit bars make a delightful snack on their own or can be served with a dollop of yogurt for breakfast. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider drizzling them with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and orange juice. Browse more American recipes for great breakfast or snack ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store the 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, place them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Bar contains roughly 224 calories, with 3g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 12g 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 use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
While fresh fruit can be used, it may alter the texture and moisture content of the bars. If using fresh fruit, consider reducing the amount of orange juice to avoid excess moisture. Dried fruit adds a concentrated sweetness and chewiness that complements the bars well.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make these bars gluten-free by substituting wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, ensure that the oats are certified gluten-free, as cross-contamination can occur. The bars will still hold together well and maintain a delicious flavor.
How do I cut the bars evenly?
To cut the bars evenly, first allow them to cool completely in the pan. Use a sharp knife and lightly score the surface into 32 equal squares before cutting all the way through. This technique helps achieve clean edges and prevents the bars from crumbling.
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).