Microwave Fruit And Nut Chews
Chewy, sweet fruit and nut chews made with dried apricots or dates, crispy rice cereal, and nuts, perfect for a quick, satisfying treat that combines textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart glass measure, cook margarine on High for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes, until melted.
- Stir in chopped apricots or dates and sugar, then add the egg. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in crisp rice cereal and chopped pecans or walnuts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier option, consider using coconut oil instead of margarine or butter. You can also substitute honey or maple syrup for sugar to add a natural sweetness. If you’re looking to add more flavor, try incorporating a teaspoon of vanilla extract. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chews as a sweet snack or a quick breakfast option. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Feel free to enjoy them alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced meal. For a delightful twist, serve them with Hungarian Pancakes for a unique brunch experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, place them in the microwave for a few seconds to soften slightly, making them more enjoyable to eat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Fruit And Nut Chews contains roughly 1471 calories, with 13g protein, 188g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (80% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (68% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 735mg per serving (32% 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 for this recipe?
Fresh fruit contains more moisture than dried fruit, which can affect the texture of the chews. It's best to stick with dried fruit like apricots or dates to achieve the right consistency. If you want a fresher flavor, consider mixing in some zest from citrus fruits.
What can I use if I don’t have egg?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of applesauce or a mashed banana to help bind the ingredients together. Alternatively, a flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water) can work as a great egg replacement.
How can I make these vegan-friendly?
To make this recipe vegan, replace the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine. Use a flax egg or applesauce as an egg substitute, and ensure that the sugar you use is vegan-friendly, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
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).