Looking for a tasty and convenient snack that you can enjoy anytime, anywhere? Look no further than these delicious Fruit Bars! Packed with the goodness of fresh fruits and wholesome ingredients, these bars are perfect for a quick breakfast on the go, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a satisfying post-workout treat. Let’s dive into how to make these easy and versatile Fruit Bars that are sure to become a staple in your snack repertoire.
**Fruit Bars**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups mixed fresh fruits (such as berries, diced apples, and sliced bananas)
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or almonds)
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat** your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. **Prepare the Fruit Mixture:**
– In a mixing bowl, combine the mixed fresh fruits, honey, and cinnamon. Mix well until the fruits are coated with the honey and cinnamon.
3. **Make the Oat Mixture:**
– In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined.
4. **Layer the Bars:**
– Spread half of the oat mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, pressing it down firmly to create a solid base.
– Next, spread the fruit mixture over the oat layer, ensuring an even distribution.
– Finally, crumble the remaining oat mixture over the top of the fruit layer, gently pressing it down.
5. **Bake the Bars:**
– Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the fruit layer is bubbly.
6. **Cool and Slice:**
– Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. This will help the bars set.
– Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the dish and transfer them to a cutting board. Slice into individual bars or squares.
7. **Enjoy and Store:**
– These Fruit Bars are best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
8. **Variations:**
– Feel free to customize these bars by adding different fruits, nuts, or seeds based on your preferences. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent touch.
9. **Nutrition Tip:**
– These Fruit Bars are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, making them a nutritious snack choice for anytime you need a burst of energy.
These homemade Fruit Bars are not only delicious and satisfying but also a healthier alternative to store-bought snacks. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch of these bars to enjoy throughout the week. So, why not give this recipe a try and treat yourself to a flavorful and wholesome snack that you can feel good about indulging in!
