Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars

Name: Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 cup dried mixed fruit (raisins, apricots, cranberries); 1 cup unsweetened apple juice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of the holiday season with these Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars. Perfectly spiced and fruity, they make an ideal treat for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-02T16:30:02.335Z

These Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars are inspired by the rich, aromatic flavors of mulled wine, combining dried fruits and warm spices into a delightful dessert. They evoke the essence of cozy winter evenings by the fire, making them a perfect addition to your holiday festivities.

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Warm spices that evoke holiday cheer
Chewy texture with a burst of fruity flavor
Easy to make and perfect for sharing

      

The Perfect Holiday Treat

As the holiday season approaches, our cravings for warm, comforting flavors heighten. These Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars perfectly capture the essence of the festive season, combining the richness of dried fruits with the aromatic spices that make mulled wine so beloved. They are not just a delightful dessert; they embody the spirit of togetherness, making them an excellent addition to any holiday gathering.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy get-together or bringing a dish to share at a potluck, these fruit bars are sure to impress. They’re easy to slice into squares, making them a perfect finger food. Each bite offers a chewy texture paired with a burst of fruity flavor, reminiscent of warm mulled wine. Plus, they make wonderful gifts for friends and family who appreciate homemade treats!

Easy to Make and Share

One of the best aspects of these Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars is how simple they are to prepare. With just a few straightforward steps, you can create a delightful dessert that is both satisfying and impressive. The combination of dried fruits and warm spices requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor, making this recipe a go-to for anyone, even novice bakers.

The bars are also an excellent choice for sharing. Pack them up in festive containers for holiday parties or give them as thoughtful gifts to loved ones. They are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike, bridging the gap between traditional holiday flavors and modern, wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Bars

1 cup dried mixed fruit (raisins, apricots, cranberries)
1 cup unsweetened apple juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg

Mix all the ingredients well to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Instructions

Prepare the Fruit Mixture

In a saucepan, combine the dried mixed fruit and apple juice. Heat over medium until the mixture begins to simmer. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and spices.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter and egg. Then add the cooled fruit mixture to the wet ingredients and stir to combine.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the mixture into a greased 9x9 inch baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and firm to the touch.

Cool and Cut

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

These bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe features a delightful blend of dried mixed fruits, feel free to customize according to your preferences. Dried figs, cherries, or even dates can serve as excellent alternatives, enhancing the flavor profile of your bars. If you prefer a bit of tartness, consider adding dried cranberries for a zesty kick.

You can also swap out the spices based on your taste. For instance, adding a pinch of cardamom or a splash of vanilla extract can elevate the flavor even more. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to make it your own while still retaining that essential holiday spirit.

Storing and Serving Tips

To keep your Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Cut the bars into squares, layer them with parchment paper, and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months, so you can enjoy them well beyond the holiday season!

When serving, consider dusting the bars with powdered sugar for a festive touch or pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. They also complement a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee, making for a cozy afternoon treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried?

Dried fruit works best for this recipe because it concentrates the flavors and provides the right texture.

→ How should I store the bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

→ Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.

→ Is there a way to make these bars less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of brown sugar or use unsweetened dried fruits to lower the sweetness.