Sugarless Fruit 'N' Nut Squares
Sweet, nutritious fruit 'N' nut squares combine dried fruits and walnuts for a wholesome treat suitable for health-conscious snack lovers and those seeking natural sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- On a sheet of waxed paper, sift flour, baking soda, and cinnamon; set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine water, chopped prunes, chopped dates, raisins, and melted butter.
- Add beaten eggs and vanilla; mix well.
- Stir in chopped walnuts and dried apples.
- Gradually add the sifted flour mixture, folding gently until combined.
- Pour batter into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool, then cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier variation, substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour. You can also replace oleo or butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. If you prefer, swap out walnuts for pecans or almonds, depending on your taste. For added sweetness, consider adding a mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce. Ensure to fold the flour gently to keep the squares light.
Serving Suggestions
These squares are perfect as a snack or a healthy dessert. Serve them alongside a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They also pair beautifully with Plain Cake And Applesauce Topping for a more substantial dessert. For a fun twist, top with a dollop of yogurt and fresh fruit.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fruit 'n' nut squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sugarless Fruit 'N' Nut Squares contains roughly 766 calories, with 14g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value), calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and iron (37% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 22g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
While dried fruit provides a concentrated sweetness and chewy texture, you can use fresh fruit in a pinch. However, you may need to adjust the water content as fresh fruit contains more moisture. Consider using mashed bananas or finely chopped apples for a similar flavor profile.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
You can replace the eggs with flaxseed meal or chia seeds. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This will provide a similar binding effect in the squares.
How can I make these squares more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger to the spice mix. You can also incorporate a splash of orange or lemon zest for a citrusy touch. For a richer taste, try adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the batter.
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).