Noel Fruit Bars
Delicious Noel Fruit Bars combine nuts, dates, and candied fruits in a buttery, sweet crust, perfect for festive occasions or a wholesome snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs until light and fluffy.
- Gradually beat in confectioners sugar.
- Stir in melted butter.
- Sift together dry ingredients; fold into egg mixture with nuts and fruits.
- Spread in a greased 9-inch by 9-inch by 2-inch baking pan.
- Bake in a slow oven (325°F) for 30 to 35 minutes.
- Cut into bars; frost with butter frosting and top with candied cherries, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the egg mixture. You can substitute the walnuts with pecans or almonds if you prefer a different nut. If you can't find candied fruits, use dried fruits like apricots or cranberries for a similar sweetness. Be careful not to overmix the batter to keep the bars tender.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delightful on their own, but you can enhance them by serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or afternoon snacks. For a festive touch, consider drizzling them with a light glaze.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Noel Fruit Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, where they will last for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold for a refreshing snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Noel Fruit Bars contains roughly 266 calories, with 2g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 532mg per serving (23% 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 different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts are traditional, you can easily substitute them with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts to suit your taste. Just make sure to chop them finely for even distribution throughout the bars.
What can I use instead of candied fruit?
If candied fruits are hard to find, you can use dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots. They will provide a similar sweetness and texture, allowing you to create a delicious variation of the original recipe.
How do I know when the fruit bars are done baking?
To check if the Noel Fruit Bars are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as they should remain soft and chewy.
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).