Apple Cranberry Nut Bars

Apple Cranberry Nut Bars Recipe - Delicious and Nutritious Snack Option

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 10

Introduction

Apple Cranberry Nut Bars are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apples and the crunchiness of nuts, all wrapped up in a moist and chewy bar. This recipe is perfect for those who love fruity desserts but are looking for something a bit more nutritious and satisfying. Whether you're packing them for a picnic, serving them at a brunch, or simply enjoying them as a snack, these bars are sure to please.

History

The concept of fruit and nut bars has been around for centuries, evolving from ancient fruit and nut mixtures to the more refined and baked versions we enjoy today. The Apple Cranberry Nut Bar, in particular, is a modern take on these traditional treats, incorporating ingredients like buttermilk and egg whites for a lighter texture, and using baking soda as a leavening agent to give them a bit more rise. The addition of oats adds a wholesome, hearty element, making these bars not only delicious but also somewhat nutritious.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup quick oats
0.67 cup brown sugar
2 tsp baking soda
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp cinnamon
0.67 cup buttermilk
3 tbsp vegetable oil
2 large egg whites
1 golden delicious apple, cored and chopped
0.5 cup dried cranberries or raisins
0.25 cup chopped nuts
2 tbsp flaked coconut (optional)

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Stir to blend.
Add buttermilk, oil, and egg whites. Beat just until blended.
Stir in apple, dried fruit, and nuts.
Spread the batter evenly in the pan and top with coconut, if desired.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool, then cut into 10 bars.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.
If you're not a fan of cranberries, feel free to substitute them with another dried fruit such as cherries or blueberries.
For a vegan version, replace the buttermilk with a plant-based milk mixed with 1 teaspoon of vinegar to mimic the acidity, and use flax eggs instead of egg whites.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Apple Cranberry Nut Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

- When mixing the batter, stir just until the ingredients are combined to avoid overworking the mixture, which can result in tough bars.

- Be sure to chop the apple into small, even pieces to ensure they cook through evenly.

- For a nuttier flavor and extra crunch, toast the nuts before adding them to the batter.

- Keep an eye on the bars as they bake, as oven temperatures can vary. They're done when a cake tester or toothpick comes out clean from the center.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are delicious on their own, but for an extra special treat, try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They're also great with a cup of coffee or tea for a mid-morning snack or an after-dinner dessert.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses the creaming method for combining the wet and dry ingredients, ensuring a light and tender texture in the final bars. Baking at a moderate temperature allows the bars to cook through evenly without becoming too dry or burning on the edges.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier, more nutritious bar.

- Use honey or maple syrup in place of brown sugar for a different flavor profile and a more natural sweetener option.

- Almond milk or coconut milk can be used instead of buttermilk for a dairy-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well; wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the microwave when ready to enjoy.

Presentation Ideas

For a beautiful presentation, drizzle the bars with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a few dried cranberries for an extra pop of color and texture.

Pairing Recommendations

Apple Cranberry Nut Bars pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For a cozy fall or winter treat, enjoy them with a mug of hot apple cider or a spiced latte. In the warmer months, a cold glass of milk or iced tea complements the fruity flavors perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

To store, place the bars in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored at room temperature for a few days or refrigerated for longer freshness. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave for a few seconds until slightly heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single Apple Cranberry Nut Bar contains approximately 200 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie option for a snack or dessert that's satisfying and filling.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Apple Cranberry Nut Bars contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the all-purpose flour, oats, and brown sugar, providing energy to fuel your day. The fruits also contribute natural sugars and fiber.

Fats

These bars contain about 7 grams of fat per serving, with the main sources being the vegetable oil and nuts. While the recipe calls for a relatively small amount of oil, the nuts add healthy unsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.

Proteins

Each bar offers around 4 grams of protein, coming mainly from the nuts and egg whites. While not a high-protein snack, these bars do provide a modest amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

Thanks to the inclusion of fruits and nuts, these bars are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the apples, iron and magnesium from the nuts, and potassium from the buttermilk. They also provide dietary fiber, which is important for digestive health.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens such as gluten (from the flour and oats), nuts, and eggs (from the egg whites). Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should take caution or consider substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Apple Cranberry Nut Bars offer a balanced combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with a variety of vitamins and minerals. They're a relatively healthy option for those looking for a sweet treat that also provides some nutritional benefits.

Summary

Apple Cranberry Nut Bars are a versatile and delicious treat that's perfect for any occasion. With a balance of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors, they're sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you're looking for a nutritious snack or a delightful dessert, these bars are a great choice. Plus, with the ability to make substitutions and variations, you can easily customize the recipe to suit your dietary needs and preferences.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Apple Cranberry Nut Bars. It was a crisp autumn day, with the leaves turning vibrant shades of red and gold. I was visiting my dear friend Margaret, who was known for her delicious baking skills. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the warm, inviting smell of cinnamon and apples.

Margaret had a twinkle in her eye as she handed me a square of the most delectable looking bar I had ever seen. The crust was buttery and crumbly, the filling was bursting with juicy apples and tart cranberries, and the topping was a crunchy mix of nuts and oats. I took a bite and was immediately transported to a state of pure bliss. It was the perfect combination of sweet and tart, with just the right amount of crunch.

I begged Margaret for the recipe, but she just smiled and said it was a family secret that had been passed down for generations. However, she did offer to teach me how to make it from scratch. I eagerly agreed, and thus began my journey to mastering the art of Apple Cranberry Nut Bars.

Margaret guided me through each step of the process, from making the crust to preparing the filling to sprinkling on the topping. She shared with me her tips and tricks, such as using cold butter for the crust and tossing the cranberries in a bit of sugar to balance out their tartness. As we worked side by side in her kitchen, I felt a sense of joy and fulfillment that I had never experienced before.

After a few hours of baking and waiting for the bars to cool, it was finally time to taste the fruits of our labor. I held my breath as I took my first bite, and let out a sigh of contentment as the flavors exploded in my mouth. Margaret beamed with pride as she watched me savor every morsel.

As I left Margaret's house that day, I knew that I had stumbled upon a treasure trove of recipes that would become a part of my own culinary repertoire. I made a promise to myself to continue learning and experimenting with new dishes, just like Margaret had taught me.

Over the years, I collected recipes from various places and people, each one adding a unique flavor to my cooking. I sought out different techniques and ingredients, always eager to expand my culinary horizons. But no matter how many recipes I tried, the Apple Cranberry Nut Bars remained a special favorite of mine.

I shared the recipe with my friends and family, who all marveled at the delicious bars and begged for more. I was proud to carry on the tradition that Margaret had passed down to me, and honored to be able to share it with others.

As I sit here now, in my own cozy kitchen, preparing a batch of Apple Cranberry Nut Bars for a family gathering, I can't help but think back to that fateful day with Margaret. She may have been the one to teach me how to make these bars, but it was her passion and love for cooking that truly inspired me.

And so, as I take a bite of the warm, gooey bar in front of me, I say a silent thank you to Margaret for showing me the joy of cooking and the power of sharing a delicious meal with those you love. The recipe for Apple Cranberry Nut Bars may have come from her, but the memories and experiences that have accompanied it are all my own. And for that, I am forever grateful.