Mixed Nut Bars
Mixed Nut Bars offer a delightful combination of crunchy nuts and sweet butterscotch, all held together by a buttery crust. Perfect for snacking, potlucks, or sharing with friends, these bars provide a rich, nutty flavor with a caramel-like sweetness that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the flour, brown sugar, and margarine like pie crust and pat into a 9 x 13-inch pan. Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
- Cover the baked crust with the mixed nuts.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and white corn syrup together.
- Add the butterscotch chips to the melted mixture and stir until smooth.
- Pour the melted mixture over the nuts in the pan.
- Bake at 350°F for an additional 10 minutes.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the margarine with unsalted butter. If mixed nuts aren't available, feel free to use your favorite nut combination, such as almonds and walnuts. Ensure to chop larger nuts for even distribution. For a touch of sweetness, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the melted mixture before pouring it over the nuts.
Serving Suggestions
These mixed nut bars make a delightful snack on their own but can also be served alongside a scoop of French Vanilla Ice Cream for a decadent dessert. For an added crunch, serve with fresh fruit or a side of Stewed Tomatoes to balance the sweetness. They are perfect for parties or as a lunchbox treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover mixed nut bars 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 bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until slightly warm, enhancing their chewy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mixed Nut Bars contains roughly 835 calories, with 4g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 73g fat.
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 different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize the nut mixture based on your preference. Just ensure the total weight remains around 13 oz. Popular choices include pecans, cashews, or peanuts. Mixing in some chocolate chips can also add a delightful twist.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
After the final baking time, the top should be golden brown, and the mixture should be bubbly. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them to ensure they hold their shape.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, mixed nut bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just be sure to store them properly in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They are also great for freezing; wrap them tightly and store for up to three months.
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).