Adirondack Applesauce and Date Bars
Discover the rustic charm of Adirondack Applesauce and Date Bars, a wholesome and delicious treat perfect for any time of day. These bars combine the hearty texture of old-fashioned rolled oats with the warm, spiced sweetness of unsweetened applesauce and tender chopped dates. A buttery, crumbly oat crust encases the luscious fruit filling, creating layers of flavor and texture in every bite. Enhanced with a touch of cinnamon and vanilla, this recipe offers a comforting homemade taste reminiscent of cozy afternoons in the Adirondacks. Ready in under an hour with simple pantry ingredients, these bars are ideal as an afternoon snack, a brunch addition, or a light dessert. Plus, the optional sprinkling of sugar on top adds a delicate crunch that elevates this already delightful treat. Whether you're entertaining guests or looking for a sweet yet wholesome snack, these fruit-filled bars are sure to please!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups Old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
- 0.75 cups Brown sugar, packed
- 0.75 cups Unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup Unsweetened applesauce
- 1.5 cups Pitted dates, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar (for topping, optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
Pour the melted butter into the dry mixture and stir until the mixture forms a crumbly texture.
Press about two-thirds of the crumb mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the applesauce, chopped dates, and vanilla extract. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly and the dates soften, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Spread the date and applesauce mixture evenly over the base layer in the pan.
Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the top of the filling, gently pressing it down to ensure it adheres to the filling.
For an added touch of sweetness and texture, sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the top layer (optional).
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.
Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Once cooled, slice into bars or squares and serve. Enjoy your Adirondack Applesauce and Date Bars as a delightful snack or dessert!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3999 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 159.0 g | 204% | |
| Saturated Fat | 93.7 g | 469% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 388 mg | 129% | |
| Sodium | 1248 mg | 54% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 628.1 g | 228% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 44.2 g | 158% | |
| Total Sugars | 351.0 g | ||
| Protein | 46.8 g | 94% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 396 mg | 30% | |
| Iron | 18.6 mg | 103% | |
| Potassium | 2806 mg | 60% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
