Sunshine Fruit Bars
Sunshine Fruit Bars combine oats, dried fruit, and warm cinnamon for a wholesome, portable treat that offers a burst of citrus flavor, perfect for snack time or picnics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Lightly grease or spray a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Fold in the dried fruit mix.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons oats on top.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
- Cut into 20 bars.
- Bars may be frozen for later storage.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewy texture, use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats. You can substitute the dried fruit mix with your favorite dried fruits like cranberries or apricots. For added flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or seeds. If you're short on time, mix the ingredients in a food processor for quicker blending. Don’t skip greasing the pan well to ensure easy removal of the bars.
Serving Suggestions
These fruit bars make a perfect on-the-go breakfast or snack. Serve them alongside a refreshing yogurt dip or a smoothie for a balanced meal. You could also pair them with a cup of tea or coffee. They are great for school lunches or as a healthy dessert option after meals. For a delightful combination, they pair beautifully with Maple Rolls.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the Sunshine Fruit Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy them warm, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sunshine Fruit Bars contains roughly 246 calories, with 2g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 630mg per serving (27% 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 fresh fruit instead of dried fruit in this recipe?
Fresh fruit can be used, but it will change the texture and moisture content of the bars. If you decide to use fresh fruit, reduce the amount of orange juice slightly to avoid a soggy mixture. Consider using fruits like bananas or berries, but keep in mind they may require a longer baking time.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by replacing the egg with a flax egg. To create a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. You can also use a plant-based oil to maintain the recipe's moisture.
What can I use instead of brown sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with white granulated sugar mixed with a little molasses. For a healthier option, consider using coconut sugar or maple syrup, but be sure to adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly to maintain the right 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).