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!

Nutriscore Rating: 50/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 12

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)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3

Pour the melted butter into the dry mixture and stir until the mixture forms a crumbly texture.

Step 4

Press about two-thirds of the crumb mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the base layer.

Step 5

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.

Step 6

Spread the date and applesauce mixture evenly over the base layer in the pan.

Step 7

Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the top of the filling, gently pressing it down to ensure it adheres to the filling.

Step 8

For an added touch of sweetness and texture, sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the top layer (optional).

Step 9

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.

Step 10

Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 11

Once cooled, slice into bars or squares and serve. Enjoy your Adirondack Applesauce and Date Bars as a delightful snack or dessert!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1187.5 grams (1187.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3999

Total Fat 159.00g	204%
Saturated Fat 93.70g	469%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 388mg	129%
Sodium 1248mg	54%
Total Carbohydrate 628.10g	228%
Dietary Fiber 44.20g	158%
Total Sugars 351.00g
Protein 46.80g	94%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 397mg	31%
Iron 19mg	103%
Potassium 2806mg	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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 34.6%

Protein: 4.5%

Carbs: 60.8%