Sugar-Free Fruit 'N' Nut Squares
Sweet, nutty, and naturally sugar-free fruit squares combining dried fruits, cinnamon, and walnuts, perfect for a wholesome snack or dessert for health-conscious families and busy individuals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer water, prunes, dates, and raisins for four minutes.
- Beat in eggs, vanilla, and chopped walnuts.
- Add flour, soda, and cinnamon, then mix until well blended.
- Pour batter into a greased 9 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until golden.
- Allow to cool, then cut into 16 squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier option, you can substitute half the margarine with unsweetened applesauce, which will also add moisture. If you don't have walnuts on hand, pecans or almonds work well too. Adjust the cinnamon to your taste; for a spicier twist, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg. Mixing in a bit of coconut flakes can enhance the flavor profile, making these squares reminiscent of tropical treats.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are perfect as a wholesome snack or a quick breakfast on the go. Serve them with a side of Greek yogurt for added protein or alongside a fresh fruit salad to enhance the fruity flavors. They pair beautifully with a cup of herbal tea or coffee, making them a delightful treat any time of the day.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Sugar-Free Fruit 'N' Nut Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, ensuring they stay moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sugar-Free Fruit 'N' Nut Squares contains roughly 285 calories, with 4g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 17g 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 other types of dried fruit in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the prunes, dates, and raisins with other dried fruits like apricots, figs, or cranberries. Just be mindful of the sugar content in the dried fruits you choose, especially if you are strictly avoiding sugar.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the unbleached or whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum, which helps with the texture.
How can I make these squares more flavorful?
To add more depth of flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter. You can also experiment by adding a few tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist, creating a unique variation.
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).