Fruitcake Bars – Easy Christmas Dessert Recipe
Fruitcake Bars are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that captures the essence of Christmas in every bite. With a medley of dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, these bars are not only festive but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season, they bring a touch of traditional fruitcake flavor without the fuss of baking an entire cake.
Key Takeaways:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Main ingredients: Dried fruits, nuts, flour, eggs, spices
- Special techniques: No special techniques required; simple mixing and baking
- Storage information: Can be stored at room temperature or refrigerated for up to two weeks
Introduction to Fruitcake Bars – Easy Christmas Dessert Recipe:
Fruitcake has a long and storied history that dates back to ancient times when it was made with barley, pomegranate seeds, and raisins. Over the centuries, it evolved into the rich, dense cake we know today, often associated with Christmas celebrations. However, many people find traditional fruitcake to be overly sweet or heavy, leading to a mixed reputation. This is where fruitcake bars come in, offering a lighter, more approachable version of the classic dessert that maintains all the beloved flavors of the original.
These Fruitcake Bars are a modern twist on a holiday favorite, making them ideal for busy bakers who want to indulge in festive flavors without the complexity of a multi-layered cake. The bars are also perfect for potlucks, holiday parties, or simply enjoying at home with a warm cup of tea or coffee. With their vibrant colors and delightful textures, these bars are sure to become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire.
Ingredients for Fruitcake Bars – Easy Christmas Dessert Recipe:
- 2 cups mixed dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots, and cherries): Adds sweetness and chewiness.
- 1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, pecans, and almonds): Provides crunch and richness.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Acts as the base and binds the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bars rise and become light.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Imparts a warm, spicy flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth and holiday aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 3 large eggs: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Provides sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
Preparation Steps for Fruitcake Bars – Easy Christmas Dessert Recipe:
1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal of the bars later.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. Beat the Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until they are frothy. Add the brown sugar, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Add Fruits and Nuts: Gently fold in the mixed dried fruit and nuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour into Pan: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment overhang. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into squares or bars.
Flavor Profile of Fruitcake Bars – Easy Christmas Dessert Recipe:
Fruitcake Bars are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, with the natural sweetness of dried fruits perfectly balanced by the earthy crunch of nuts. The spices of cinnamon and nutmeg infuse the bars with a warm, inviting aroma that evokes the essence of Christmas. Each bite offers a chewy texture from the fruits, a satisfying crunch from the nuts, and a soft, cake-like consistency that makes them incredibly enjoyable. The bars are not overly sweet, allowing the flavors of the ingredients to shine through, making them a perfect treat for any festive gathering.
Benefits of Fruitcake Bars – Easy Christmas Dessert Recipe:
These Fruitcake Bars are not only delicious but also come with several nutritional benefits. Dried fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals, providing essential nutrients like potassium, iron, and antioxidants. Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, contributing to heart health and satiety. The use of whole ingredients means you can enjoy a treat that is more wholesome than many processed desserts. Additionally, the bars can be made gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend, making them accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions for Fruitcake Bars – Easy Christmas Dessert Recipe:
Fruitcake Bars are versatile and can be served in various ways. For a festive touch, dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk. Serve them alongside a hot beverage, like spiced cider or eggnog, for a cozy holiday experience. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. For a charming presentation, arrange the bars on a decorative platter and garnish with fresh cranberries or slices of orange and sprigs of rosemary.
Storage Tips for Fruitcake Bars – Easy Christmas Dessert Recipe:
To keep your Fruitcake Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them, which will keep them good for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them gently in the oven.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, these Fruitcake Bars are a delightful and easy Christmas dessert that brings holiday cheer to any table. With their rich flavors and festive appeal, they are sure to become a beloved tradition in your holiday baking. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them with your family at home, these bars are a wonderful way to celebrate the season. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the sweet taste of Christmas!
FAQ Section:
1. Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried fruits?
- Fresh fruits contain more moisture and will alter the texture of the bars. It’s best to stick with dried fruits for the best results.
2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
- Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour to make them gluten-free.
3. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
- The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Can I add other ingredients to the bars, like chocolate chips?
- Absolutely! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or other nuts.
5. How should I cut the bars?
- Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles, depending on your preferred size.
6. Can these bars be made ahead of time?
- Yes! These bars can be made a few days in advance, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules.
7. What can I do if the bars are too dry?
- If the bars turn out dry, you can serve them with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup on top to add moisture.
8. Are these bars suitable for gifting?
- Yes! These bars make a great homemade gift. Just package them nicely in a box or tin, and they’ll be a delightful treat for friends and family.
Full Recipe
Fruitcake Bars - Easy Christmas Dessert Recipe Ingredients: - 1 cup butter, softened and at room temperature - 1 ½ cups light brown sugar, packed - 3 large eggs, at room temperature - 1 tablespoon vanilla extract - 1 pinch salt - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 cup mixed peel - 1 cup candied cherries (red and green), quartered or chopped - 1 cup candied pineapple, chopped - 1 cup dried dates, pitted and chopped Directions: 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan or line it with parchment paper. 2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. 3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. 4. Gradually mix in the flour until just combined. 5. Fold in the mixed peel, candied cherries, candied pineapple, and chopped dates until evenly distributed. 6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. 7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. 8. Allow the fruitcake bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Your delightful fruitcake bars are ready to enjoy! Perfect for sharing during the holidays!