Prune Coconut Bars

Prune Coconut Bars Recipe - Healthy and Delicious

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Prune Coconut Bars are a delicious and nutritious treat that can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert. These bars are made with a combination of sweet prunes, crunchy oats, and coconut, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

History

The recipe for Prune Coconut Bars has been around for many years and is a popular choice for those looking for a healthy and satisfying snack. Prunes have long been known for their health benefits, including their high fiber content and natural sweetness. When combined with oats and coconut, they create a tasty and nutritious treat that is perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients

2 cups of chopped and pitted prunes
1 tbsp of grated orange rind
0.5 cup of water
1 cup of rolled oats
1 cup of whole wheat flour
0.33 cup of wheat germ
0.5 cup of flaked or shredded coconut
0.5 cup of vegetable oil

How to prepare

In a saucepan, cook the prunes, orange rind, and water until the mixture becomes soft and smooth.
In a separate bowl, combine the oats, flour, wheat germ, coconut, and oil.
Stir the ingredients together until well blended.
Press half of the mixture onto the bottom of an 8-inch square baking pan.
Evenly spread the prune mixture on top of the pressed mixture.
Cover the prune mixture with the remaining oat mixture and press it evenly over the top.
Bake the mixture in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for approximately 30 minutes, or until the topping turns lightly browned.
Allow the mixture to cool in the pan before cutting it into bars.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch and protein.
Substitute dried apricots or figs for the prunes for a different flavor profile.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the bars for a decadent touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the prune mixture until it is soft and smooth to ensure that it spreads evenly over the oat mixture.

- Pressing the oat mixture firmly into the pan will help the bars hold together better.

- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares to prevent them from falling apart.

Serving Suggestions

Prune Coconut Bars can be enjoyed on their own as a snack or dessert. They can also be served with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the prune mixture until it is soft and smooth to ensure that it spreads evenly over the oat mixture.

- Pressing the oat mixture firmly into the pan will help the bars hold together better.

- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares to prevent them from falling apart.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have prunes, you can use dried apricots or figs instead.

- You can substitute the whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour if desired.

- If you're not a fan of coconut, you can omit it from the recipe or substitute it with chopped nuts or seeds.

Make Ahead Tips

Prune Coconut Bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.

Presentation Ideas

Prune Coconut Bars can be cut into squares or rectangles for easy serving. They can be arranged on a platter or plate for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Prune Coconut Bars pair well with a cup of tea or coffee for a satisfying snack. They can also be enjoyed with a glass of milk or a fruit smoothie.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Prune Coconut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Prune Coconut Bars contains approximately 250 calories. This makes them a satisfying and nutritious snack option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Prune Coconut Bars contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for fueling our daily activities.

Fats

Each serving of Prune Coconut Bars contains approximately 10 grams of fat. Fat is important for providing energy, supporting cell growth, and aiding in the absorption of vitamins.

Proteins

Each serving of Prune Coconut Bars contains approximately 4 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, as well as supporting immune function.

Vitamins and minerals

Prune Coconut Bars are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin E, and iron. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Prune Coconut Bars contain wheat and coconut, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before consuming these bars.

Summary

Prune Coconut Bars are a nutritious snack option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy choice for any time of day.

Summary

Prune Coconut Bars are a delicious and nutritious snack option that is easy to make and perfect for any time of day. With a combination of sweet prunes, crunchy oats, and coconut, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings while providing essential nutrients for your body. Enjoy them on their own or with your favorite beverage for a tasty treat that will keep you energized and satisfied.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for Prune Coconut Bars. It was a warm summer day many years ago, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret. Margaret was a wonderful cook and always had the most delicious treats waiting for me whenever I came to visit. On this particular day, as we sat in her cozy kitchen sipping tea and catching up on each other's lives, she suddenly pulled out a tattered old notebook from her kitchen drawer.

"I have something special to show you," Margaret said with a twinkle in her eye. "This is a recipe that has been passed down through generations in my family. It's for Prune Coconut Bars, and it's absolutely divine."

As Margaret flipped through the pages of the notebook, she explained that the recipe had been given to her by her grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago. The combination of sweet prunes and chewy coconut in a buttery crust sounded intriguing, and I couldn't wait to try it.

Margaret and I spent the afternoon baking together, measuring out the ingredients and mixing them together with care. The kitchen was filled with the warm scent of butter and sugar as the bars baked in the oven, and I could hardly contain my excitement as I waited for them to cool.

When the bars were finally ready, Margaret cut them into squares and handed me one to taste. The first bite was pure bliss – the sweet, sticky prunes paired perfectly with the chewy coconut and buttery crust. I was hooked.

From that day on, Prune Coconut Bars became a regular treat in my kitchen. I made them for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just as a special treat for myself. Each time I baked a batch, I thought of Margaret and her grandmother, and the special bond that food can create between friends and family.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the recipe, adding a pinch of cinnamon here and a dash of vanilla there. I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of Prune Coconut Bars to a new generation. And each time I bake a batch, I feel a connection to Margaret and her grandmother, and the love and care that went into creating this delicious treat.

As I sit here now, writing this story and thinking back on that warm summer day in Margaret's kitchen, I am filled with gratitude for the simple joys that food can bring. The memories of baking Prune Coconut Bars with Margaret will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am grateful for the recipe that has become a beloved tradition in my own kitchen. And so, as I continue to bake and share this recipe with others, I carry on a legacy of love and friendship that will endure for generations to come.