Sliced Fruit Bars
Sweet and fruity, these sliced fruit bars combine candied cherries and pineapple with a buttery dough, perfect for a delightful treat suitable for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, sugar, and baking powder, then add softened oleo and mix well with cherries, pineapple, eggs, and vanilla.
- Work dough until easy to work with.
- Divide dough and roll into ropes. Place on cookie sheets.
- Bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Cool slightly and cut about 1-inch apart diagonally.
- Frost them before cutting or use powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your oleo is softened at room temperature for easy mixing. If you don’t have candied fruit, try using dried fruit or fresh fruit with a little added sugar. Adjust the baking time based on your oven, and keep an eye on the bars to prevent over-baking. Adding nuts can enhance the texture, so consider incorporating some if desired.
Serving Suggestions
These sliced fruit bars can be enjoyed as a delightful snack or dessert. Serve alongside a cup of tea or coffee, or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat. For an added touch, drizzle with frosting or sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving. They also make a great addition to a picnic spread or a potluck.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sliced fruit bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. For reheating, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes until they regain their softness, but avoid overheating to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sliced Fruit Bars contains roughly 317 calories, with 5g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 565mg per serving (25% 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 a different type of fat instead of oleo?
Yes, you can substitute oleo with butter or margarine in equal amounts. Using butter will add a richer flavor, while margarine is a good alternative for a dairy-free option. Just ensure that whichever fat you choose is softened for easier mixing.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, you can sprinkle a little extra flour while mixing or rolling. However, be careful not to add too much flour, as it may make the bars dry. Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can also help firm it up and make it easier to handle.
How can I enhance the flavor of these fruit bars?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. You can also include a splash of orange or lemon zest for a citrusy punch. Experimenting with different combinations of candied fruits can also yield exciting flavor variations.
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).