When you’re in need of a quick energy boost, nothing beats the delightful combination of dried fruits and nuts. These nutritious snacks not only taste amazing but are also packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Whether you’re hiking, at work, or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon, these wholesome treats are versatile and satisfying.
What makes dried fruit and nut bars particularly appealing is their effortless convenience. They are easy to transport, making them perfect for on-the-go munching. Moreover, they can be made at home with your favorite ingredients, allowing for endless flavor combinations that cater to your taste buds. Say goodbye to processed snacks and embrace these delightful, homemade gems!
Benefits of Nut and Dried Fruit Snacks:
Nut and dried fruit bars are not just delightful snacks; they are also packed with numerous health benefits. These morsels of energy combine the nutritional power of nuts with the sweetness of dried fruits, providing essential vitamins and minerals. For instance, nuts are rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which can contribute to heart health and aid in weight management. On the other hand, dried fruits, such as apricots or dates, offer a concentrated source of vitamins, particularly vitamins A and C, along with antioxidants that combat oxidative stress.
Moreover, enjoying nut and dried fruit bars as a convenient snack can help sustain energy levels throughout the day. They are perfect for busy lifestyles and serve as a healthier alternative to processed snacks. For a delicious twist, try making peanut butter oatmeal bars, incorporating your favorites, to create a satisfying treat that’s both nutritious and delicious. Embrace the benefits of these wholesome snacks today!
Ingredients for Dried Fruit and Nut Bars:
Creating your homemade Dried Fruit and Nut Bars is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients. Start with 2 cups of nuts of your choice; I personally used 1 cup each of walnuts and almonds for a delightful crunch. Next, add 2 cups of dried fruits—1 cup of pitted dates and 1 cup of prunes work beautifully together. For a tropical twist, include ¼ cup of unsweetened shredded coconut. To give your bars a rich flavor, sift in 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder, which pairs well with the natural sweetness of the fruits.
Don’t forget a splash of vanilla extract to enhance each bite and a large pinch of flaky salt. This salt not only adds depth but also highlights the sweetness of the dried fruits. For an extra touch, sprinkle some more flaky salt on top once the mixture is set.
These nutritious bars make a perfect on-the-go snack and can be enjoyed alongside indulgent recipes like Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars. Give them a try today!
How to Prepare Dried Fruit and Nut Bars:
To make these delicious dried fruit and nut bars, start by chopping your chosen nuts, like walnuts and almonds, into bite-sized pieces. Next, pulse the pitted dates and prunes in a food processor until they form a thick paste. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped nuts, the fruit paste, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, a splash of vanilla extract, and a generous pinch of flaky salt. Mix everything thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated.
Now, press the mixture firmly into a lined baking dish, smoothing out the top. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little more flaky salt on top. Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least two hours to set. Once firm, slice into bars. For more energy-boosting options, explore additional recipes like Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars. For a deeper understanding of the health benefits of nuts and dried fruits, check out this informative guide on Nuts and Dried Fruits Energy Bars. Enjoy your nutritious snack!
Nutritional Information of Dried Fruit and Nut Bars:
Dried fruit and nut bars offer a fantastic balance of nutrition, making them an ideal snack for energy boost or workday pick-me-ups. These nutrient-dense bars provide a good mix of proteins, healthy fats, and dietary fiber. Typically, a single bar contains around 150-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Such bars usually feature almonds, walnuts, or cashews, enriching them with heart-healthy fats.
In addition, they often incorporate dried fruits like figs, dates, or cranberries, which add natural sweetness and vitamins. For example, dates are a great source of potassium and fiber. By swapping out less healthy snacks for these wholesome bars, you invest in your health while satisfying cravings. If you enjoyed the versatility of dried fruit and nut bars, make sure to check out my Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars that offer similar benefits! Remember, these snacks make planning a balanced diet much easier.
Storage Tips for Dried Fruit and Nut Bars:
To maintain the freshness and flavor of your dried fruit and nut bars, proper storage is essential. First, ensure they are completely cooled before storing. Wrap each bar individually in parchment paper to prevent sticking and keep their texture intact. After wrapping, place them in an airtight container to further seal in the goodness.
Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help to prevent them from becoming too crumbly or stale. For longer storage, consider the refrigerator; the cooler temperature can extend their shelf life. If you enjoy making these delicious snacks regularly, you might also like to try peanut butter oatmeal bars which are easy to store in a similar way! Check periodically for freshness and use within 2-3 weeks for optimal taste and texture.
Variations and Add-ins:
Transform your dried fruit and nut bars into a delightful treat with easy variations. Consider adding chocolate chips for sweetness or sunflower seeds for crunch. Moreover, dried mango or apricots can offer a tropical flair. For a wholesome option, incorporate oats from recipes like peanut butter oatmeal bars, balancing flavor and nutrition beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What are Dried Fruit and Nut Bars?
Dried fruit and nut bars are nutritious snacks made from a blend of dried fruits, nuts, and often sweeteners or binders like honey or maple syrup. These bars provide a wholesome option for on-the-go energy, perfect for busy lifestyles.
How do I store homemade nut and fruit bars?
For optimal freshness, store your homemade dried fruit and nut bars in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating or even freezing them, preserving their texture and flavor.
Can I customize my Dried Fruit and Nut Bars?
Absolutely! The beauty of these snack bars lies in their versatility. You can use various nuts and dried fruits, adjust the sweetness, or even add extras like seeds or spices to suit your taste.
Are Dried Fruit and Nut Bars healthy?
Yes, they are generally healthy as they are packed with essential nutrients. However, it’s important to be mindful of portion sizes, as the calories can add up quickly, especially when using high-calorie ingredients.
How do I make these bars stick together?
To ensure the ingredients bind well, incorporate sticky options such as peanut butter or dates. Mixing the dry ingredients with a binder helps create that perfect chewy consistency.
Can I find similar recipes on your site?
Certainly! If you enjoy snacks that are both healthy and delicious, you might like my Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars. They’re easy to prepare and offer a great alternative when you’re craving something wholesome!
Print
Dried Fruit and Nut Bars: Delicious Treats for Every Craving
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Dried Fruit and Nut Bars are a healthy, delicious snack packed with energy. Perfect for on-the-go munching, they combine crunchy nuts, sweet dried fruits, and a hint of cocoa for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
2 cups nuts of your choice (I used walnuts and almonds)
2 cups dried fruits (I used a cup of pitted dates and prunes each)
¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
3 tablespoon cocoa powder
splash of vanilla extract
large pinch of flaky salt + more for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine the nuts, dried fruits, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and flaky salt. Pulse until the mixture is well combined and sticky.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan, pressing it firmly into an even layer.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until set. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.
- Once cool, lift out of the pan, cut into bars, and sprinkle with a little flaky salt on top if desired.
Notes
Feel free to customize your nuts and dried fruits according to your preferences. You can also add in some seeds for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 30 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Dried Fruit and Nut Bars, healthy snacks, energy bars, dessert, no-bake bars