Fruit Filled Spice Bars
Fruit-filled spice bars combine the warm flavors of gingerbread with sweet dried fruits, offering a delightful treat perfect for snack times or dessert gatherings, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine gingerbread mix, applesauce, and water in a bowl.
- Beat for 2 minutes at medium speed.
- Fold in raisins, chopped dried apricots, and chopped prunes.
- Spread the mixture on a greased and floured 15 x 10-inch jelly roll pan.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Allow to cool.
- Prepare the white frosting according to package directions, substituting lemon juice for the water.
- Frost the cooled bars with the prepared frosting.
- Cut into bars and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more robust flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the gingerbread mix. You can also substitute the dried fruits with your favorites, such as dried figs or cranberries, for a unique twist. If you're looking to make this a vegan recipe, swap the white frosting mix for a plant-based alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these fruit-filled spice bars as a delightful dessert or snack alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee. They pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, drizzle with a little White Grape Apple Butter to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover spice bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until warm, to enjoy it fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Filled Spice Bars contains roughly 670 calories, with 6g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 696mg per serving (30% 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 fresh fruit instead of dried?
While fresh fruit can add moisture, it may affect the texture and baking time of the bars. If you prefer fresh, consider using apples or pears, but reduce the amount of applesauce to maintain the right consistency.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to dry bars. Keep an eye on them after 15 minutes.
Can I freeze these spice bars?
Yes, you can freeze the spice bars for up to three months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
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).