Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars
Highlighted under: Whisked Delight Recipes
Delight in the festive flavors of Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings.
These Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars are a festive treat that captures the essence of winter gatherings. Infused with warm spices and the rich flavor of mulled wine, they are perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A unique twist on traditional fruit bars with a spiced mulled wine flavor.
- Perfectly chewy texture combined with a hint of warmth from spices.
- Ideal for holiday parties or as a cozy treat by the fireplace.
Celebrate the Season with Flavor
Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars are not just a treat; they encapsulate the very essence of the holiday season. The rich flavors of dried fruits meld beautifully with the warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, evoking the cozy atmosphere of winter gatherings. Whether you're hosting a festive party or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these bars offer a delightful way to celebrate.
The combination of chewy oats and almond flour provides a satisfying texture, while the hint of mulled wine adds a unique twist that sets these bars apart from traditional fruit bars. Each bite is a flavorful journey that transports you to a winter wonderland, making them perfect for sharing with loved ones during this special time of year.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars are incredibly versatile. They make a fantastic addition to holiday dessert tables, serving as a healthier alternative among indulgent treats. Their portability also makes them an excellent choice for holiday picnics or cozy gatherings by the fire, where friends can enjoy them as a comforting snack.
Moreover, these bars are a great option for gifting. Wrapped in cellophane and tied with a festive ribbon, they make thoughtful presents for friends, family, or coworkers. Everyone appreciates a homemade treat during the holidays, and these bars are sure to impress with their unique flavor and delightful presentation.
Healthy Indulgence
One of the best aspects of Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars is that they are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The dried fruits provide natural sweetness and are rich in vitamins, while oats offer fiber that helps keep you satiated. Almond flour adds healthy fats and proteins, making these bars a guilt-free indulgence that you can enjoy any time of the day.
Additionally, using unsweetened applesauce and honey as sweeteners keeps the bars wholesome and lowers refined sugar content. This makes them suitable for those looking to maintain a healthier lifestyle during the holiday season while still indulging in a festive treat.
Ingredients
For the Bars
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup mulled wine (or non-alcoholic equivalent)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Mix the ingredients well and prepare to bake.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the dried fruits, oats, almond flour, honey, applesauce, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, mulled wine, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with slivered almonds and shredded coconut if desired.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before slicing into squares.
Enjoy your homemade Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars!
Storing Your Fruit Bars
To keep your Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them for a longer period, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to two weeks. These bars also freeze well; simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months, allowing you to have a festive treat ready at a moment's notice.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen bars, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. This way, you can savor the warm spices and chewy texture anytime you crave a cozy treat.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to personalize your Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars! You can swap out the mixed dried fruits for your favorites, such as figs, dates, or even tropical fruits like pineapple. Adding a handful of dark chocolate chips can elevate these bars to a decadent dessert, perfect for those who crave a little sweetness.
For a nut-free version, replace the almond flour with oat flour or a blend of sunflower seed flour. You can also try different spices according to your preference; a pinch of cardamom or ginger can add an exciting twist. Tailoring the recipe to your taste will make these bars even more enjoyable!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
Fresh fruit will change the texture and moisture level; it is best to stick with dried fruits for this recipe.
→ Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for mulled wine?
Yes, you can use grape juice or apple cider with mulling spices added for a similar flavor.
→ How do I store the bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars
Delight in the festive flavors of Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Whisked Delight Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 bars
What You'll Need
For the Bars
- 2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup mulled wine (or non-alcoholic equivalent)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the dried fruits, oats, almond flour, honey, applesauce, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, mulled wine, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with slivered almonds and shredded coconut if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before slicing into squares.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 10mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 3g