Low-fat Sugar-free Raisin Bars

Low-fat Sugar-free Raisin Bars Recipe - Wholesome Ingredients

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25-30 minutes | Servings: 9

Introduction

These Low-fat Sugar-free Raisin Bars are a delicious and guilt-free treat that is perfect for those looking to enjoy a sweet snack without all the added sugar and fat. Packed with the natural sweetness of raisins and applesauce, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

History

Raisin bars have been a popular treat for many years, often enjoyed as a snack or dessert. This low-fat, sugar-free version of the classic recipe offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

1 cup of raisins
0.5 cup of water
0.25 cup of margarine
1 tsp of ground cinnamon
0.25 tsp of nutmeg
1 cup of all-purpose flour
1 egg, lightly beaten
0.75 cup of unsweetened applesauce
1 tbsp of sugar substitute
1 tsp of baking soda
0.25 tsp of vanilla extract

How to prepare

In a saucepan, heat the first 5 ingredients over medium heat until the margarine is melted; continue cooking for 3 minutes.
Add all the remaining ingredients.
Spread the mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 25 to 30 minutes or until lightly browned.

Variations

Swap out the raisins for dried cranberries or apricots.
Use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Add in a tablespoon of chia seeds for extra nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use unsweetened applesauce to keep the added sugar content low.

- Feel free to add in your favorite nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor.

- Store these bars in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these bars as a midday snack or dessert with a cup of tea or coffee.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use butter instead of margarine if desired.

- Honey or maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener instead of sugar substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

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

Pairing Recommendations

Enjoy these bars with a glass of almond milk or a scoop of low-fat vanilla ice cream.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories per serving: 150

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g

Fats

Total Fat: 5g

Proteins

Protein: 2g

Vitamins and minerals

These bars are a good source of iron and vitamin C.

Alergens

Contains: Egg, Wheat

Summary

These Low-fat Sugar-free Raisin Bars are a nutritious and delicious snack option that is low in calories and fat.

Summary

These Low-fat Sugar-free Raisin Bars are a delicious and healthy snack option that is perfect for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth without all the added sugar and fat. Enjoy these bars guilt-free anytime you need a little pick-me-up.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was during a trip to visit my cousin in the countryside, where she introduced me to a group of elderly ladies who were known in the community for their amazing baking skills. As soon as I walked into their cozy kitchen, I was greeted with the warm aroma of freshly baked goodies filling the air.

One of the ladies, Mrs. Johnson, took me under her wing and showed me how to make her famous Low-fat Sugar-free Raisin Bars. She explained that she had discovered the recipe years ago when she was looking for a healthier alternative to the traditional sugary treats that were so popular at the time.

Mrs. Johnson began by showing me how to make the base of the bars using a mixture of whole wheat flour, oats, and a touch of cinnamon. She explained that these ingredients not only added a delicious nutty flavor to the bars but also helped to keep them low in fat and sugar.

Next, she demonstrated how to make the filling by combining a generous amount of plump, juicy raisins with a hint of orange zest and a sprinkle of stevia for sweetness. As she mixed the ingredients together, the kitchen was filled with the sweet aroma of the raisins mingling with the citrusy scent of the orange zest.

Once the base and filling were ready, Mrs. Johnson showed me how to assemble the bars by spreading the raisin mixture over the oat and flour base and pressing it down firmly. She explained that this step was crucial to ensure that the bars held together well when they were baked.

As the bars baked in the oven, the kitchen was filled with the tantalizing scent of cinnamon, oats, and raisins mingling together in perfect harmony. Mrs. Johnson and I chatted about her family, her love for baking, and all the memories she had created in her kitchen over the years.

When the bars were finally ready, Mrs. Johnson carefully removed them from the oven and allowed them to cool before cutting them into neat squares. The bars were moist, chewy, and bursting with the natural sweetness of the raisins, making them the perfect guilt-free treat for any occasion.

As I took my first bite of the Low-fat Sugar-free Raisin Bars, I knew that this recipe would become a treasured favorite in my own kitchen. Not only were the bars delicious, but they also reminded me of the special day I had spent with Mrs. Johnson and the other lovely ladies in the countryside.

Since that day, I have made these bars countless times for my family and friends, each time sharing the story of how I learned to make them from Mrs. Johnson. The recipe has become a staple in my collection, and I am grateful for the opportunity to pass it down to future generations as a token of the special memories and friendships I have made along the way.