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 water; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon mulled wine or red wine; 1 teaspoon water (if needed)

Highlighted under: Festive Feast Ideas

These Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars are a delightful treat, combining the warm flavors of mulled wine with chewy fruit and a hint of spice. Perfect for cozy gatherings or as a holiday indulgence!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-02T20:22:02.394Z

These Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars are inspired by the traditional flavors of mulled wine, making them a unique twist on your typical dessert bar. Infused with spices and dried fruits, they are perfect for sharing during festive occasions.

        Why You'll Love These Bars
        Warm, spiced flavor reminiscent of cozy winter evenings
Chewy texture with a hint of sweetness from dried fruits
Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a delightful gift

      

The Perfect Winter Treat

As temperatures drop and the holiday season approaches, nothing quite warms the heart like a deliciously spiced treat. These Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars embody the essence of winter with their rich flavors and inviting aroma. The infusion of mulled wine not only adds a depth of flavor but also evokes memories of cozy evenings spent by the fire, making them the perfect companion for your holiday gatherings.

Imagine biting into a bar that combines the chewy texture of dried fruits with the warmth of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Each bite transports you to a festive atmosphere, making these bars an ideal dessert for holiday parties or a sweet addition to any winter dessert table. They're not just a treat; they’re an experience that brings people together.

A Versatile Recipe

One of the best aspects of these Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars is their versatility. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or looking for a thoughtful homemade gift, these bars are a delightful choice that can easily be adapted to suit different tastes. Feel free to experiment with various dried fruits or even add nuts for an extra crunch. This adaptability ensures that every batch can be a little different, keeping the treat exciting for everyone.

Additionally, these bars can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy stress-free holiday preparations. Simply bake, glaze, and store them in an airtight container. They can last for several days, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a sweet treat to savor throughout the season.

Healthier Holiday Indulgence

During the holiday season, it can be challenging to find treats that balance indulgence with health. These Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars offer a healthier alternative to many traditional desserts. Packed with dried fruits rich in vitamins and fiber, they provide natural sweetness while reducing the need for excessive added sugars. The use of rolled oats adds a wholesome touch, making these bars more satisfying and nutritious.

Moreover, you can customize the sweetness to your liking, adjusting the amount of brown sugar or swapping it for a natural sweetener. This means you can indulge in a festive dessert without the guilt, allowing you to enjoy the holiday spirit without compromising your health goals.

Ingredients

For the Bars

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

For the Glaze

1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon mulled wine or red wine
1 teaspoon water (if needed)

Combine all ingredients to create a delicious, spiced treat!

Instructions

Prepare the Dried Fruit

In a small saucepan, combine the dried mixed fruit and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the fruit is plump, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir in the cooled fruit mixture.

Combine Mixtures

Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Pour the batter into a greased 9x9-inch baking pan and spread evenly.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.

Prepare the Glaze

In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with mulled wine until smooth. If needed, add a teaspoon of water to reach desired consistency. Drizzle over cooled bars.

Enjoy your delicious Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars!

Storing Your Fruit Bars

To keep your Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to two weeks. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you're planning to make these bars in advance for a special occasion, they also freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.

Serving Suggestions

These Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars are delightful on their own, but they can also be dressed up for special occasions. Consider serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds a festive touch, elevating their presentation.

For a cozy gathering, pair these bars with a warm mug of mulled wine or spiced cider. This combination not only enhances the flavors but also creates a lovely atmosphere perfect for sharing stories and laughter during the holiday season.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried?

While fresh fruit can be used, it may alter the texture and moisture content of the bars.

→ How should I store these bars?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to three months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.

→ What can I serve these bars with?

They pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, especially during the colder months.