Sweet, chewy, and bursting with vibrant flavors, these candied fruit bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. Made with a buttery base and a colorful mix of candied fruits, these bars are as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re preparing a snack, dessert, or festive gift, this recipe will impress every time.
Why This Candied Fruit Bars Recipe is a Must-Try
This bars recipe is a delightful combination of rich, buttery crust and sweet, jewel-like fruits. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for holidays, parties, or an everyday indulgence. For more dessert ideas, visit our dessert category.
Not only are these bars simple to make, but they also store well, making them ideal for meal prep or gifting. For another colorful and fruity dessert, check out our French Napoleon Pastry Recipe.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make the best candied fruit bars:
For the Base:
- 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
- ½ cup of unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup of granulated sugar
- A pinch of salt
The Topping:
- 1 cup of mixed candied fruits (cherries, orange peel, pineapple, etc.)
- ½ cup of chopped nuts (optional, like almonds or walnuts)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup of brown sugar
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp of baking powder
For more recipes featuring fruits and baked treats like this candied fruit bars, explore our baking category.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Base
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until it forms a crumbly dough.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan to create the base. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
3. Make the Topping
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Stir in the candied fruits, nuts (if using), and baking powder.
4. Assemble the Bars
- Pour the fruit mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the topping is set.
5. Cool and Slice
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing them into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!
For a complementary snack idea like this candied fruit bars recipe, try our Banana Spinach Pancakes for a healthier option.
Customizing Your Candied Fruit Bars Recipe
This homemade candied fruit bars recipe is easy to adapt. Here are some ideas:
- Change the Fruit Mix:
- Use dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or raisins alongside candied fruits for variety.
- Make It Nut-Free:
- Skip the nuts and add extra candied fruits for a more kid-friendly version.
- Add Spices:
- Include a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, festive flavor.
For more creative treats, visit our snacks category.
Tips for Perfect Candied Fruit Bars
- Use Quality Ingredients
High-quality candied fruits and fresh nuts make a big difference in flavor. - Don’t Overbake
Keep an eye on the bars during baking to ensure the crust and topping remain soft and chewy. - Cool Completely
Allow the bars to cool fully before slicing to ensure clean, even cuts. - Store Properly
Store the bars in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions for Candied Fruit Bars
These candied fruit bars pair wonderfully with:
- A cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
- A drizzle of white chocolate for an elegant presentation.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
For another delightful dessert option, try our Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms for a savory and sweet contrast.
Nutrition Facts for Candied Fruit Bars
Per serving (based on 12 bars, approximate values):
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugars: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 80mg
Candied Fruit Bars are a sweet and colorful dessert packed with dried and candied fruits. They provide a burst of energy, making them a festive treat for holidays, celebrations, or a mid-afternoon snack. For a lighter option, reduce the sugar or opt for unsweetened dried fruits.
Regional Variations of Candied Fruit Bars
Candied Fruit Bars are a global delight with unique regional influences:
- Classic American Candied Fruit Bars
- Key Ingredients: Candied cherries, raisins, walnuts, and vanilla.
- Flavor Profile: Sweet and nutty with a soft, chewy texture.
- Pairing: Serve with a glass of milk or hot cocoa.
- European-Inspired Fruit Bars
- Key Ingredients: Dried figs, apricots, dates, and a splash of rum or brandy.
- Flavor Profile: Rich, aromatic, and slightly boozy.
- Pairing: Perfect with black tea or espresso.
- Tropical Candied Fruit Bars
- Key Ingredients: Dried pineapple, mango, coconut flakes, and macadamia nuts.
- Flavor Profile: Sweet and tangy with a tropical twist.
- Pairing: Serve with a pineapple smoothie or iced tea.
- Middle Eastern-Inspired Bars
- Key Ingredients: Candied orange peel, pistachios, dates, and cardamom.
- Flavor Profile: Warm and aromatic with a hint of spice.
- Pairing: Enjoy with Turkish coffee or chai tea.
- Health-Conscious Candied Fruit Bars
- Key Ingredients: Unsweetened dried fruits, almond flour, and honey.
- Flavor Profile: Naturally sweet and mildly nutty.
- Pairing: Pair with green tea or herbal infusions.
Fun Cooking Techniques for Kids
Making Candied Fruit Bars is an exciting and hands-on activity for kids:
- Chopping Fruit
- Activity: Supervise kids as they chop dried and candied fruits into small pieces.
- Learning Outcome: Introduces them to knife safety and preparation techniques.
- Mixing the Batter
- Activity: Let kids combine fruit, nuts, and batter ingredients in a large bowl.
- Learning Outcome: Teaches them about texture and flavor balance.
- Spreading in the Pan
- Activity: Show kids how to evenly spread the batter into the baking pan.
- Learning Outcome: Encourages precision and neatness.
- Decorating with Toppings
- Activity: Allow kids to sprinkle extra fruit, nuts, or sugar on top before baking.
- Learning Outcome: Fosters creativity and personal expression.
- Cutting the Bars
- Activity: Teach kids to cut the cooled bars into even portions using a safe knife.
- Learning Outcome: Builds fine motor skills and introduces them to portioning.
Kitchen Tools to Elevate Candied Fruit Bars
- Mixing Bowl
- Perfect for combining the batter and fruit mixture evenly.
- Nonstick Baking Pan
- Ensures the bars bake evenly without sticking.
- Offset Spatula
- Useful for spreading the batter smoothly into the pan.
- Parchment Paper
- Makes lifting the bars out of the pan and cleaning up effortless.
- Sharp Knife
- Essential for cutting the bars into clean, uniform pieces.
- Cooling Rack
- Allows the bars to cool completely before slicing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Batter
- Overmixing can lead to dense bars. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Using Too Much Fruit
- Excess fruit can make the bars overly sweet or soggy. Stick to the recommended quantities.
- Skipping the Parchment Paper
- Lining the pan ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.
- Overbaking
- Check for doneness with a toothpick to avoid dry or hard bars.
- Cutting Before Cooling
- Allow the bars to cool completely to prevent them from crumbling during slicing.
Creative Add-Ins
- Spices
- Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for warmth and depth.
- Chocolate Chips
- Fold in dark or white chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence.
- Seeds
- Include sunflower seeds, chia seeds, or flaxseeds for added crunch and nutrition.
- Citrus Zest
- Grate orange or lemon zest into the batter for a fresh, tangy flavor.
- Crunchy Toppings
- Sprinkle with granola or crushed nuts before baking for a textured topping.
How to Double or Scale Candied Fruit Bars
- Double the Recipe
- Multiply all ingredients proportionally and use a larger baking pan.
- Layered Bars
- Create layers with different fruits or nuts for a visually appealing presentation.
- Bake in Batches
- If using the same pan, bake in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Store for Later
- Freeze extra bars individually wrapped for a quick snack anytime.
How to Store Candied Fruit Bars
- Room Temperature
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration
- Extend freshness by refrigerating the bars for up to 10 days.
- Freezing
- Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
Candied Fruit Bars in Culture
Candied Fruit Bars draw inspiration from traditional fruitcakes, a beloved dessert in various cultures. Their vibrant colors and sweet flavors make them a staple during festive occasions like Christmas and Easter.
Easy to prepare and versatile in ingredients, these bars symbolize celebration and the joy of sharing. Their popularity has extended beyond holidays, becoming a year-round favorite for potlucks, tea parties, and quick snacks.
How to Adapt Candied Fruit Bars for Special Diets
- Gluten-Free Option
- Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegan-Friendly
- Use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs and vegan butter for traditional butter.
- Low-Sugar Option
- Opt for unsweetened dried fruits and reduce added sugars.
- Nut-Free
- Replace nuts with seeds or omit them entirely for those with allergies.
- Dairy-Free
- Use plant-based milk and butter alternatives to make the recipe dairy-free.
How to Adapt Candied Fruit Bars for Special Occasions
- Holiday Celebrations
- Use red and green candied fruits for a festive touch and sprinkle with powdered sugar.
- Wedding Desserts
- Serve in small, elegant squares with a drizzle of white chocolate.
- Casual Gatherings
- Arrange bars on a platter with a variety of toppings to cater to different tastes.
- Romantic Picnics
- Pack bars in decorative wrapping and serve with fresh fruit and sparkling wine.
- School Snacks
- Prepare a nut-free version for a kid-friendly treat that’s perfect for lunchboxes.
FAQs About Candied Fruit Bars
1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! This bars store well and can be made up to a week in advance.
2. Can I freeze candied fruit bars?
Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.
3. Are there substitutions for candied fruits?
Yes! Dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or apricots can be used as substitutes or mixed in with candied fruits.
4. How do I make the bars gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the crust to make this recipe gluten-free.
Explore More Recipes
If you loved this candied fruit bars recipe, explore our dessert category for more sweet treats or visit our baking category for other creative ideas. From festive favorites to everyday indulgences, our site has something for every craving.
Every dish you prepare is an opportunity to create, experiment, and nourish not only your body but also your soul. Whether it’s a comforting breakfast, a delicious dessert, or a meal to share with loved ones, remember that cooking is first and foremost an adventure — a journey of discovery. Don’t be afraid to add your personal touch, improvise, and have fun in the kitchen. After all, the best recipes are the ones that come from the heart. So, put on your apron, let your imagination run wild, and savor every moment, because in the kitchen, every minute spent creating a dish is one step closer to happiness. Enjoy and see you soon for more delicious inspirations!
Happy baking! 😊
