No Bake Fruitcake Bars
No Bake Fruitcake Bars offer a sweet, chewy treat with candied fruit, nuts, and graham cracker crumbs, perfect for festive occasions or a quick homemade dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix vanilla pudding, margarine, and milk in a saucepan.
- Cook on medium heat until it boils.
- Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and add graham cracker crumbs, mixed candied fruit, and nuts.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Pour into a pan and pack firmly.
- Refrigerate overnight to set.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar and cut into squares before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting butter for margarine. If you prefer a different texture, you can add crushed pretzels or coconut flakes. To ensure the bars hold together well, make sure to pack them tightly in the pan. If you'd like to add some zest, a sprinkle of lemon or orange peel can brighten the flavors. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover mixed candied fruit.
Serving Suggestions
These No Bake Fruitcake Bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair well with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, sprinkle some nuts or coconut on top before serving, or enjoy alongside a slice of Easy No Bake Cheesecake for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fruitcake bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To enjoy them after freezing, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds if desired, but they're best served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of No Bake Fruitcake Bars contains roughly 400 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 36g 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 make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make these No Bake Fruitcake Bars gluten-free by using gluten-free graham cracker crumbs. Just check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious treat!
What can I substitute for the mixed candied fruit?
If you don't have mixed candied fruit, you can substitute it with dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots. Fresh fruits like chopped apples or pears can also work, but keep in mind that they may change the texture and moisture of the bars.
How long do the bars need to set in the refrigerator?
It's best to refrigerate the No Bake Fruitcake Bars overnight to allow them to set properly. However, if you're in a hurry, you can let them chill for at least 4 hours. Just make sure they're firm before cutting them into squares for 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).