Fruitcake Bars – Fruity, Nutty & Easy to Make

These Fruitcake Bars are a modern twist on the classic holiday dessert. Bursting with dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, they’re perfectly moist and easy to make. Ideal for holiday gatherings, gifting, or a sweet snack anytime, these bars are a convenient way to enjoy fruitcake flavors without the traditional long bake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All the flavors of traditional fruitcake in an easy-to-cut bar.
• Loaded with dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices.
• Perfect for holiday desserts, gifts, or snack platters.
• Easy to make in advance and store for weeks.
• No need to wait days for flavors to develop, ready to enjoy quickly.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract and orange juice.
5. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until combined.
6. Fold in dried fruits and chopped nuts.
7. Spread batter evenly into prepared pan.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
9. Let cool completely, then lift from pan using parchment paper and cut into bars.

Tips & Variations

• Swap dried fruits based on preference: cherries, figs, or pineapple work well.
• Add a tablespoon of rum or orange liqueur to soak fruits for extra flavor (optional).
• Top bars with a light glaze of powdered sugar mixed with orange juice for festive appeal.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
• Use almond flour for a gluten-free variation, adjusting dry ingredients as needed.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness.
• Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
• Pair with a glass of milk or warm spiced cider.
• Sprinkle with powdered sugar or drizzle with a glaze for festive presentation.
• Cut into bite-sized squares for holiday platters or gifting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! Fruitcake bars improve in flavor after a day or two, making them perfect for prep ahead of holidays.

Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely. Almonds, pecans, or walnuts all work well in this recipe.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting liquid as needed.

Do I need to soak the dried fruits?

Optional, but soaking in orange juice or a splash of rum enhances moisture and flavor.

Ready to Make It?

These Fruitcake Bars are a simple, modern way to enjoy the flavors of traditional fruitcake. Packed with dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, they’re perfect for gifting, snacking, or holiday dessert tables. Pin this recipe and enjoy festive flavors in a convenient bar form!

You Might Also Like

• Cranberry Pecan Baked Oatmeal – Cozy, nutty, and fruity breakfast.
• Classic Nanaimo Bars – Chocolatey, layered, and no-bake dessert.
• Blackberry Pistachio Bars – Fruity and nutty indulgence.
• No Bake Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars – Rich and creamy treat.

Print