Plantation Fruit Bars
Plantation Fruit Bars are hearty, nut-filled treats with rich molasses and dark syrup flavors, perfect for snack time, potlucks, or a sweet, wholesome dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream thoroughly the shortening and sugar.
- Beat in the egg, molasses, and dark syrup.
- Sift together the flour, salt, soda, and baking powder.
- Add the milk alternately with the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture.
- Stir in the chopped nuts and raisins or dates.
- Spread the batter in a greased shallow 8 x 12-inch pan.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- Cool the bars, then cut into individual pieces.
- Spread cooled bars with powdered sugar frosting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened applesauce in place of half the shortening. You can also substitute honey for the dark syrup if needed. Ensure you cream the shortening and sugar well for a lighter texture. If you prefer a more chewy bar, reduce the baking time slightly. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the spice profile, reminiscent of recipes like Old Fashioned Toll House Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delightful on their own, but you can elevate their presentation by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, drizzle with caramel sauce or serve alongside fresh fruit. You might also enjoy them with My Mother'S Cheese Crunchies for a sweet and savory snack combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Plantation Fruit Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plantation Fruit Bars contains roughly 170 calories, with 3g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 490mg per serving (21% 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 the recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any nuts you prefer or have on hand, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds. Just make sure to chop them coarsely to ensure they mix well into the batter and provide a nice texture in each bite.
Is it possible to make these bars vegan?
Yes, you can make vegan Plantation Fruit Bars by substituting the egg with a flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use a plant-based shortening or coconut oil in place of regular shortening, and ensure that the milk is non-dairy, like almond or soy milk, for a delicious vegan version.
What can I use if I don't have molasses on hand?
If you don’t have molasses, you can substitute it with an equal amount of dark corn syrup or honey for sweetness. However, keep in mind that molasses adds a unique flavor, so using a combination of brown sugar and a bit of water can also mimic the taste and consistency.
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).