Fruitcake Bars
Fruitcake Bars are sweet, chewy treats packed with candied fruit, nuts, and coconut. Their rich, layered flavors make them perfect for festive occasions or as a hearty snack. Easy to customize, these bars offer a delightful combination of textures and a moist, dense finish that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a rectangular baking dish.
- Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over the melted margarine.
- Add coconut, then candied mixed fruit over the crumbs.
- Cut dates into small pieces and toss with a small amount of flour to prevent sticking.
- Sprinkle the chopped dates and nuts over the mixture.
- Press lightly with hands to level the surface.
- Pour condensed milk evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can substitute the candied mixed fruit with dried cranberries or cherries for a tart twist. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds. Make sure to chop the dates finely to ensure even distribution throughout the bars.
Serving Suggestions
These fruitcake bars are delicious on their own or served with a dollop of whipped cream. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside a cheese platter or as part of a holiday dessert spread featuring Ice Box Fruitcake and other seasonal treats.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fruitcake bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at a low temperature until heated through, being careful not to dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruitcake Bars contains roughly 495 calories, with 5g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value), potassium (11% of the Daily Value), and protein (10% 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 candied mixed fruit?
Using fresh fruit is not recommended as it contains too much moisture, which can affect the texture of the bars. Stick with candied or dried fruits for the best results. If you prefer a healthier option, try using unsweetened dried fruit, but ensure they are chopped finely for even distribution.
What kind of nuts work best in this recipe?
You can use any type of nuts you prefer, but walnuts and pecans are popular choices due to their rich flavor and texture. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a tasty alternative that still adds crunch.
How can I tell when the fruitcake bars are done baking?
The fruitcake bars are done when the edges are lightly browned and the center has set but is still slightly soft. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Allow them to cool completely before cutting into bars to ensure they hold their shape.
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).