California Avocado Bars

California Avocado Bars Recipe - Healthy and Delicious USA Treat

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

California Avocado Bars are a delicious and unique dessert that combines the creamy texture of avocado with the sweetness of brown sugar and carrots. These bars are perfect for a sweet treat or a light snack.

History

The recipe for California Avocado Bars originated in California, where avocados are plentiful and often used in a variety of dishes. This recipe is a creative way to incorporate avocados into a dessert, adding a creamy texture and subtle flavor to the bars.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups light brown sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
4 oz (113 g) 1 package 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
0.5 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

Add in chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
Swap out the carrots for zucchini or sweet potato for a different twist on the recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture in these bars.

- Be sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure a smooth and even batter.

- Feel free to add in additional mix-ins such as nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these California Avocado Bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to mix the batter thoroughly to ensure a smooth and even texture.

- Bake the bars in a preheated oven to ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.

- If you don't have cream cheese, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Cut the bars into squares and dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve these California Avocado Bars with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply place in the microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of California Avocado Bars contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of California Avocado Bars contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of California Avocado Bars contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of California Avocado Bars contains approximately 3 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

California Avocado Bars are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese) and eggs.

Summary

California Avocado Bars are a delicious and nutritious dessert option, providing a good source of healthy fats and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

California Avocado Bars are a unique and delicious dessert option that combines the creamy texture of avocado with the sweetness of brown sugar and carrots. These bars are easy to make and perfect for a sweet treat or snack. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a warm summer day in California, and I was visiting my friend, Maria, who lived in a small town nestled in the mountains. Maria was known for her love of cooking and baking, and she always had the most delicious treats waiting for me whenever I came to visit.

On this particular day, Maria greeted me at the door with a big smile and a warm hug. She ushered me into her cozy kitchen, where the sweet scent of freshly baked goodies filled the air. As we sat down at the table to catch up, Maria brought out a plate of the most delectable-looking bars I had ever seen. They were a beautiful shade of green, with a creamy layer on top and a buttery crust on the bottom.

"These are my famous California Avocado Bars," Maria said proudly. "I learned the recipe from a friend who lives down in the valley. They're a family favorite, and I know you're going to love them."

I took a bite of the bar and was immediately transported to avocado heaven. The creamy filling was perfectly balanced with the buttery crust, and the hint of citrus added a refreshing zing. I couldn't believe how delicious they were.

"Maria, these are incredible!" I exclaimed. "Would you mind sharing the recipe with me? I would love to make them for my family back home."

Maria smiled and nodded. "Of course, my dear. I'll write it down for you before you leave."

And so, before I left that day, Maria handed me a piece of yellowed paper with the handwritten recipe for California Avocado Bars. I tucked it carefully into my purse, knowing that this recipe would become a treasured addition to my collection.

When I returned home, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and getting to work in my own kitchen. As I mixed and measured, I thought back to my time with Maria and the joy that sharing recipes had brought us. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others, to share a piece of myself through the food I create.

The bars came out of the oven golden and fragrant, just like Maria's. I couldn't wait to share them with my family and see their faces light up with delight. As they took their first bite, I knew that this recipe would become a new favorite in our household.

Over the years, I've made California Avocado Bars countless times, always thinking of Maria and the day she introduced me to this delicious treat. I've shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the joy and connection that food can bring.

Each time I make these bars, I'm reminded of the power of a shared recipe. It's not just about the ingredients or the technique – it's about the memories and the stories that come with them. And for me, the story of how I learned to make California Avocado Bars will always hold a special place in my heart.