Easy and Healthy Fruit and Nut Bars for a Guilt-Free Treat

What kind of recipe is it?

Healthy fruit and nut bars are a delicious and nutritious snack option, perfect for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.

These bars are typically made from a combination of dried fruits, nuts, and natural sweeteners, making them a wholesome alternative to processed snacks. They’re packed with essential vitamins and minerals, offering sustained energy for busy lifestyles.

Ideal for health-conscious individuals, athletes, or anyone seeking a quick refuel, these bars are easy to prepare at home, allowing for customization based on personal taste preferences and dietary needs.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Rolled oats	1 ½ cups
Mixed nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, cashews)	1 cup, chopped
Dried fruits (e.g., dates, cranberries, apricots)	1 cup, chopped
Honey or maple syrup	¼ cup
Nut butter (e.g., almond or peanut butter)	½ cup
Chia seeds (optional)	2 tablespoons
Ground cinnamon (optional)	1 teaspoon
Vanilla extract (optional)	1 teaspoon
Sea salt	¼ teaspoon

Notes:

Confirm that any dried fruits used do not contain added sugars or preservatives for a healthier choice.
Adjust the quantities of nuts and dried fruits based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions.

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Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the center. Line an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later, and lightly grease it with a small amount of nut butter.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups rolled oats, 1 cup chopped mixed nuts, and 1 cup chopped dried fruits. If desired, add 2 tablespoons chia seeds and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for added flavor and nutrition.

Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. In a separate small microwave-safe bowl, combine ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup) and ½ cup nut butter. Microwave on high for 15-30 seconds until softened.

Stir to combine until smooth and homogenous.

4. Pour the honey-nut butter mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and ¼ teaspoon sea salt.

Mix thoroughly using a spatula until the dry ingredients are well coated and the mixture begins to clump together.

5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spatula or your hands to firmly press the mixture down into an even layer, ensuring it’s tightly packed for better texture and structure.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. The edges should begin to turn golden brown, and the top will have a slight sheen.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

7. After cooling, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Transfer them onto a cutting board and let them cool completely for at least an additional 30 minutes at room temperature.

8. Once fully cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the mixture into bars of desired size (approximately 1.5 inches wide for traditional bars).

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate for longer freshness.

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Variations

Chocolate Nut Delight: Replace ½ cup of chopped nuts with ½ cup of dark chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent flavor twist.
Tropical Paradise: Substitute dried fruits with 1 cup (150 g) of chopped dried mango and pineapple for a revitalizing, tropical taste.
Vegan Power Bars: Use maple syrup instead of honey and guarantee the nut butter is vegan-friendly for a plant-based option.
Cocoa Almond Bars: Add ¼ cup (25 g) of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolatey twist, and substitute mixed nuts with 1 cup (150 g) of chopped almonds.

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Tips on plating and presentation

When serving healthy fruit and nut bars, I like to focus on presentation to make them visually enticing.

I often arrange the bars on a colorful platter, adding slices of fresh fruit and a sprinkle of nuts around them.

Sometimes, I even drizzle a little honey on top for an elegant touch.

A simple garnish of mint leaves makes everything pop beautifully.

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

After presenting those healthy fruit and nut bars in an eye-catching way, you might wonder what dishes could complement them perfectly.

I love pairing them with a creamy yogurt, a light salad, or even a cheese platter with fresh fruits.

These combinations enhance the flavors and create a balanced, nutritious spread, making your snack time feel even more indulgent yet guilt-free!

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What drinks can I pair it with?

To elevate the experience of enjoying healthy fruit and nut bars, I often reach for revitalizing beverages that enhance their natural flavors.

A invigorating herbal iced tea or a zesty lemon-infused water complements the sweetness perfectly. If I’m in the mood for something bolder, a light sparkling cider adds a delightful fizz, making my treat even more satisfying and enjoyable.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Dried Fruits Instead of Fresh Fruits?

Absolutely, I often use dried fruits instead of fresh ones in my recipes. They add great flavor and sweetness, plus they’re convenient and have a longer shelf life. Just watch out for added sugars!

Are These Fruit and Nut Bars Vegan-Friendly?

Yes, these fruit and nut bars are vegan-friendly! I love that they combine wholesome ingredients, and I always guarantee there’s no dairy or animal products involved. They’re perfect for anyone following a plant-based diet!

How Long Do These Bars Stay Fresh?

These bars stay fresh for about two weeks if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. I usually pop them in the fridge, though, to extend their shelf life and keep them extra tasty.

Can I Freeze These Fruit and Nut Bars?

Absolutely, you can freeze these bars! I freeze mine all the time. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months!

Are There Nut-Free Alternatives Available?

Yes, there are nut-free alternatives! I love using seeds like pumpkin or sunflower, combined with dried fruits and oats. They create a deliciously chewy, satisfying bar that everyone can enjoy without worrying about nuts.