Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars

Name: Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup dried mixed fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots); 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce; 1/4 cup red wine; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup honey; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Artisan Dessert Bakes

Indulge in the warm and comforting flavors of these Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars, perfect for cozy gatherings and festive occasions.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-02T19:10:02.948Z

These Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars are a delightful treat that captures the essence of winter celebrations. Made with a blend of dried fruits and warm spices, they are perfect for sharing with friends and family.

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        A delightful combination of spiced wine and fruity goodness
Perfectly chewy texture with a hint of warmth from the spices
Great for any holiday gathering or cozy night in

      

The Perfect Holiday Treat

Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars are a delightful addition to any holiday spread. With their rich flavors and inviting aroma, they evoke the warmth and joy of festive gatherings. Whether you're hosting a cozy get-together or looking for a sweet treat to share with loved ones, these bars are sure to impress. The unique combination of dried fruits and spices brings a comforting touch that resonates with the spirit of the season.

These bars not only taste delicious, but they also present beautifully. Their vibrant colors from the mixed fruits create an eye-catching dessert that is perfect for holiday tables. When served alongside a warm cup of spiced cider or mulled wine, they truly become a centerpiece that everyone will want to try.

A Healthy Indulgence

What sets these Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars apart is their thoughtful ingredient list. Made with wholesome dried fruits and sweetened with honey and brown sugar, these bars offer a healthier alternative to traditional desserts. The addition of applesauce not only adds moisture but also contributes to a lower fat content, making them a guilt-free indulgence.

The use of spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves not only enhances the flavor but also provides a variety of health benefits. These spices are known for their antioxidant properties and can aid in digestion, making your dessert not only tasty but also supportive of your overall wellness.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best things about these fruit bars is their versatility. You can easily customize the recipe based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to swap out the dried fruits for your favorites, whether it be figs, dates, or cherries. This adaptability allows you to create a batch that perfectly suits your taste and dietary needs.

Additionally, the option to include nuts adds a delightful crunch to the chewy texture of the bars. Whether you choose walnuts, pecans, or almonds, the added flavor and nutrition make these bars even more satisfying. You can also experiment with different spices to create a unique twist that reflects your personal style.

Ingredients

For the Bars

1 cup dried mixed fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots)
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup red wine
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup honey
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Mix all the ingredients well and prepare to bake!

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the dried mixed fruit, applesauce, red wine, brown sugar, and honey. Stir until well mixed.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.

Add Nuts

If using, fold in the chopped nuts into the batter.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish and pour in the batter. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares. Serve and enjoy!

These bars will keep well in an airtight container for several days!

Storage Tips

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 freezing them. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months and defrosted easily at room temperature when you're ready to indulge again.

For optimal flavor, allow the bars to sit for a day or two before serving. This resting period allows the spices to meld and the flavors to deepen, making each bite even more delicious.

Serving Suggestions

These Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of accompaniments. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy textures complement the chewy bars beautifully.

For a more elegant presentation, consider drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of red wine over the top. This not only adds a touch of sweetness but also enhances the visual appeal, making them perfect for special occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried?

Fresh fruit may add too much moisture. It's best to stick with dried fruit.

→ How do I store leftover bars?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.

→ What types of wine work best?

A fruity red wine works best for the spiced flavor profile.