Avocado Bars

Avocado Bars Recipe - Delicious and Healthy Snack

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Avocado Bars are a delightful and unique dessert that combines the creamy texture of avocados with the sweetness of carrots and raisins, all nestled in a soft, cake-like bar. This recipe is perfect for those looking to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into their desserts, offering a healthier alternative to traditional sweet treats. The use of avocado not only adds a nutritional boost but also ensures the bars are moist and tender.

History

The concept of using avocados in baking is relatively modern, emerging as part of the trend to find healthier fat alternatives in traditional recipes. Avocado Bars, in particular, may not have a long history but are inspired by the growing interest in incorporating avocados into various dishes beyond their typical use in salads and guacamole. This recipe is a testament to the versatility of avocados and the innovative spirit of modern baking.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups light brown sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened
1 medium ripe california avocado, seeded, peeled, and mashed
0.5 cup vegetable oil
0.33 cup milk
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup grated carrot
1 cup raisins (optional)

How to prepare

In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon; set aside.
In a large mixer bowl, beat cream cheese and avocado until smooth.
Add oil, milk, eggs, and vanilla, beating until smooth.
Add the dry ingredients, mixing until blended.
Stir in carrots and raisins if desired.
Pour the mixture into a lightly greased and floured 9x11 inch baking dish.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 40 minutes.

Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.
Add nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added texture and nutrition.
Swap raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dates for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results for your Avocado Bars, consider the following tips:

- Use ripe avocados for a smooth, creamy texture.

- If your avocados are too firm, place them in a paper bag with a banana or apple to speed up the ripening process.

- When mixing the batter, avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.

- For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the oil with unsweetened applesauce.

- If you prefer a less sweet bar, reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly and adjust to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Avocado Bars are best served chilled. They can be topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra sweetness. For a festive touch, garnish with thin avocado slices or grated lime zest.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the creaming of the avocado and cream cheese, which ensures a smooth, creamy texture. Proper mixing of the dry and wet ingredients is also crucial to avoid overdeveloping the gluten, which can make the bars tough.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute almond milk or soy milk for dairy milk to make this recipe dairy-free.

- Use a flaxseed meal and water mixture as an egg substitute for a vegan version.

- Coconut sugar can replace brown sugar for a lower glycemic index option.

Make Ahead Tips

Avocado Bars can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Cut the bars into neat squares and place them on a serving platter lined with parchment paper for a rustic look. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Avocado Bars with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a comforting snack. For a dessert course, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of dessert wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Avocado Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To reheat, simply let them come to room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Avocado Bars contains approximately 300 calories. This makes them a relatively energy-dense snack or dessert option, ideal for an occasional treat rather than an everyday indulgence.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Avocado Bars contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, and raisins. Carbohydrates are essential for energy, so these bars can be a good source of quick energy.

Fats

Thanks to the avocado and vegetable oil, these bars are rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats. Each serving contains about 15 grams of fat. These fats are beneficial for heart health and can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Proteins

Avocado Bars provide a modest amount of protein, with each serving containing approximately 4 grams. The protein comes from the eggs and cream cheese used in the recipe. While not high in protein, these bars can contribute to your daily protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

Avocados are a powerhouse of nutrients, and these bars are a good source of vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, as well as magnesium and potassium. The carrots add beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, essential for good vision, immune function, and skin health.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs, milk (cream cheese), and gluten (all-purpose flour). Those with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this dish or find suitable substitutions.

Summary

Avocado Bars are a delicious, nutrient-rich dessert option. They provide healthy fats, essential vitamins, and minerals, and are a good source of energy. However, due to their calorie and sugar content, they should be enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Avocado Bars are a delightful, nutritious twist on traditional dessert bars. With their unique combination of flavors and textures, they offer a healthier alternative for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a dessert, these bars are sure to impress with their moist, tender crumb and rich, creamy taste.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, the sun shining brightly through the windows of my kitchen. I had just finished baking a batch of lemon bars when I realized I had run out of lemons. I was in a bit of a pickle, as I had promised to bring dessert to a family gathering later that evening.

As I stood there, pondering what to do, I remembered a friend mentioning a recipe for avocado bars. Avocado in a dessert? It sounded strange, but I was desperate. I quickly grabbed my recipe book and flipped through the pages until I found the handwritten note from my friend.

The recipe called for ripe avocados, sugar, eggs, flour, and a few other simple ingredients. I was hesitant at first, but I decided to give it a try. I had always been open to trying new recipes, and this seemed like the perfect opportunity to experiment.

I gathered all the ingredients and got to work. I mashed the avocados until they were smooth and creamy, then mixed in the sugar and eggs. I added the flour and baking powder, then poured the batter into a baking dish and popped it in the oven.

As the bars baked, the most wonderful aroma filled my kitchen. It was sweet and slightly nutty, with a hint of citrus from the lemon zest I had added. I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

When the bars were done, I let them cool before cutting them into squares. I took a bite, and I was blown away. The bars were rich and creamy, with a velvety texture that melted in my mouth. The avocado added a subtle flavor that complemented the sweetness of the sugar perfectly.

I brought the avocado bars to the family gathering that evening, and they were a hit. Everyone was intrigued by the unique flavor and texture, and they couldn't believe that avocados could be used in a dessert. I shared the recipe with anyone who asked, and soon it became a staple in my dessert repertoire.

Over the years, I have made these avocado bars countless times. They have become a favorite among my family and friends, and I love sharing the story of how I discovered this unconventional recipe. It just goes to show that sometimes the most unexpected ingredients can create the most delicious dishes.

I have always been passionate about cooking and baking, and I am constantly on the lookout for new recipes to try. Whether it's a classic dish passed down through generations or a modern twist on an old favorite, I love experimenting in the kitchen and creating meals that bring joy to those I love.

In the end, the avocado bars will always hold a special place in my heart. Not only because they are delicious, but because they represent the spirit of adventure and discovery that has guided me through a lifetime of cooking. I am grateful for the opportunity to share this recipe with others, and I hope it inspires them to step outside their culinary comfort zones and try something new. Who knows what delicious surprises they may discover along the way.