Apricot and raisin fruit bars refer to a nutritious baked snack that combines the natural sweetness and chewiness of dried fruits with the crunchiness and wholesomeness of rolled oats, nuts, and seeds. The recipe is a perfect solution for busy individuals seeking to snack on something that is not only delicious but also healthy. Apricot and raisin fruit bars recipes are easy to prepare, and the ingredients are readily available in most grocery stores.
The ingredients
To make apricot and raisin fruit bars, you will need the following ingredients:
Dried fruits
- 1 cup of dried apricots
- 1 cup of raisins
Seeds, nuts, and grains
- 1/2 cup of sunflower seeds
- 1/2 cup of pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup of almonds
- 1/2 cup of rolled oats
Other ingredients
- 1/3 cup of honey
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Preparation process
The preparation process for apricot and raisin fruit bars recipe is as follows:
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: Prepare the baking pan
Grease an 8-inch square baking pan and line it with parchment paper.
Step 3: Prepare the dried fruits and nuts
Chop the dried apricots and almonds into small pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the dried apricots, raisins, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, rolled oats, and almonds.
Step 4: Warm the honey and coconut oil
In a small saucepan, warm the honey and coconut oil over low heat until they are well combined.
Step 5: Mix the ingredients
Pour the honey and coconut oil mixture over the bowl of dried fruits and nuts. Add the cinnamon and vanilla extract and mix everything together until it forms a sticky mixture.
Step 6: Bake in the oven
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and press it down evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and serve
Take out the baking pan from the oven and let it cool down for at least 10 minutes. Use a sharp knife to cut the baked mixture into rectangular bars, and enjoy!
The benefits of apricot and raisin fruit bars
Apricot and raisin fruit bars have numerous nutritional benefits, which include:
Rich in fiber
The ingredients in apricot and raisin fruit bars such as rolled oats, dried apricots, raisins, and nuts are high in fiber. Fiber-rich foods help to regulate digestion, reduce constipation and bloating, and help to control blood sugar levels.
Rich in vitamins and minerals
Apricot and raisin fruit bars are a rich source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, and iron. These vitamins and minerals are essential for healthy bone formation, immunity, and overall wellbeing.
Low in added sugars
Unlike other baked goods that contain high levels of added sugars, apricot and raisin fruit bars contain very low levels of added sugars. This makes them a healthier option for individuals seeking to curb their sugar intake.
Convenient and easy to prepare
Apricot and raisin fruit bars are a quick and easy snack that doesn’t require too much preparation time. They are convenient and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them a perfect grab-and-go snack for busy individuals.
Conclusion
Apricot and raisin fruit bars are a healthy and delicious snack that is easy to prepare. The recipe combines the natural sweetness of dried fruits with the crunchiness of nuts, seeds, and rolled oats, making it a nutritious snack that is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. The low levels of added sugar make apricot and raisin fruit bars a healthier option for individuals seeking to snack on something that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Apricot and raisin fruit bars are a great snack option for those who love sweetness without the guilt of consuming sugar-laden snacks. These bars can be easily made at home using minimal ingredients; however, it requires some precision to get that perfect taste and texture. In this article, we will explore some valuable tips that can help you make delicious apricot and raisin bars.
Tip 1: Choosing the Right Ingredients
When making apricot and raisin bars, it is crucial to choose the right ingredients. The quality of the ingredients significantly impacts the taste and texture of the bars. Therefore, use fresh, good-quality apricots, raisins, and nuts that are free from any sulfites or additives. Using organic ingredients is an added bonus.
Apricots
Choose ripe and fresh apricots that are bright orange and have no signs of discoloration. If fresh apricots are not available, opt for dried apricots that are free from sulfites or preservatives.
Raisins
Similarly, choose plump and juicy raisins that are free from preservatives or chemically treated. Golden raisins or regular brown raisins both work well in this recipe.
Nuts
Pecans, almonds, or walnuts work well in this recipe. Choose unsalted and raw nuts for best results.
Tip 2: Soaking Nuts and Raisins
Soaking nuts and raisins before using them in the recipe adds moisture and makes them easier to blend. It also enhances the flavor and makes the texture smoother. Soak the nuts and raisins separately in warm water for at least 30 minutes before using them in the recipe. Drain off the water and pat them dry before using.
Tip 3: Using a Food Processor
Using a food processor is crucial to make these bars. A food processor helps to blend the ingredients evenly and creates a smooth and cohesive mixture. Make sure to pulse the ingredients in short bursts, not more than a second at a time. Overprocessing can turn the mixture into a paste, making it challenging to shape into bars.
Tip 4: Adding Sweeteners
Apricots and raisins are naturally sweet; however, you may want to add a sweetener to enhance the sweetness. Maple syrup, dates, or honey are good options to add sweetness to the bars without causing a spike in blood sugar levels. Add the sweetener gradually and taste as you go, as the sweetness varies depending on the fruits' ripeness.
Tip 5: Pressing the Mixture into the Baking Pan
Pressing the mixture evenly into the baking pan is critical to ensure that the bars hold their shape and do not crumble when cut. Use a flat spatula or the back of a spoon to press the mixture firmly into the pan, making sure that it is evenly spread.
Tip 6: Refrigerating the Bars
Refrigerating the bars for at least an hour after baking helps to firm them up and makes them easier to cut. Once the bars are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before placing them in the refrigerator.
Tip 7: Storing the Bars
Apricot and raisin bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer shelf life, wrap the bars individually in parchment paper, then place them in an airtight container, and store them in the freezer for up to three months.
Conclusion
Making apricot and raisin bars is easy when you know the tips and tricks. By following the above tips, you can ensure that your bars turn out delicious and healthy. Experiment with different nuts, sweeteners, or dried fruits to find the perfect combination of flavors that you like. Happy baking!
