Healthy Bars
Healthy, fiber-rich bars packed with nuts, dried fruit, and whole grains, perfect for nutritious snacks on hikes or busy days needing a wholesome energy boost.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a 13 x 9-inch baking pan with no-stick spray.
- Cream the softened butter and brown sugar together.
- Add eggs and mix until well combined.
- Stir in the bran and buttermilk, then sift in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Stir just until the mixture is well mixed.
- Fold in chopped walnuts, raisins, and chopped figs or prunes.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Bake until edges are lightly browned, about 20 minutes.
- Test the center with a clean straw to ensure it is done.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Cut into bars and wrap each in foil for easy carrying on hikes.
- Store the bars in the freezer if made far in advance to keep them fresh.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, substitute the walnuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. You can also use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option. If you prefer a sweeter bar, consider adding a bit of honey or maple syrup. To enhance flavor, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract. Ensure the butter is softened properly for easy creaming with the sugar.
Serving Suggestions
These healthy bars make an excellent snack on-the-go, perfect for hikes or busy days. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They also complement a fresh fruit salad or yogurt for a wholesome breakfast. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a scoop of ice cream for a quick dessert. Enjoy as a nutritious alternative to traditional sweets.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, individually wrap each bar in foil and place them in a zip-top bag in the freezer. This keeps them fresh for several months. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to warm them slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Healthy Bars contains roughly 527 calories, with 7g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is a good source of iron (19% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value), and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1101mg per serving (48% 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 a different type of flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, almond flour, or gluten-free flour blends. Keep in mind that different flours may alter the texture slightly, so you may need to adjust the liquid content if using a very absorbent flour like coconut flour.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a clean straw or toothpick into the center of the bars. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, the bars are ready. If wet batter sticks to the straw, continue baking for an additional few minutes and check again.
Can I add more fruits or nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your bars by adding other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots, or mixing in different nuts such as almonds or pecans. Just be mindful not to add too much additional moisture, as it could affect baking time and texture.
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).