Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars

Name: Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, apricots, cranberries); 1 cup rolled oats; ½ cup all-purpose flour; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon ground cloves; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon mulled wine; Zest of 1 orange

Highlighted under: Holiday Meal Recipes

Experience the warmth of the season with these delightful Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-02T18:10:02.727Z

These Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars combine the cozy flavors of mulled wine with a deliciously chewy base, making them a perfect treat for the colder months. They are great for sharing at gatherings or simply enjoying at home.

        Why You Will Love These Bars
        Heavenly aroma of spices fills your kitchen
Chewy and flavorful with a delightful fruitiness
Perfectly pairs with a cup of hot cocoa or tea

      

The Perfect Holiday Treat

As the holiday season approaches, the search for the perfect treat to share with friends and family begins. Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars are not only delicious but also capture the essence of holiday warmth and festivity. The combination of dried fruits and aromatic spices creates a delightful flavor profile that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.

These bars are incredibly versatile, making them an ideal addition to any holiday gathering. Whether served at a cozy family dinner or a festive party, they are sure to be a hit. Their chewy texture and rich flavors make them a delightful alternative to traditional holiday sweets, showcasing a unique twist on seasonal baking.

Aromatic Spices and Flavorful Fruits

The magic of these bars lies in the harmonious blend of spices and dried fruits. Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves not only fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma but also enhance the natural sweetness of the fruits. Using a mix of raisins, apricots, and cranberries adds depth and complexity, ensuring each bite is a delightful experience.

These ingredients not only provide great flavor but also offer a range of health benefits. Dried fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals, while the spices boast anti-inflammatory properties. This means you can indulge in these bars without the guilt, knowing that they contribute positively to your well-being during the indulgent holiday season.

Pairing Suggestions

Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars are wonderfully versatile and can be paired with a variety of beverages. For a classic combination, serve them alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa or a soothing herbal tea. The richness of the cocoa or the delicate flavors of tea complement the spices in the bars beautifully, creating a warm and comforting experience.

For those looking to elevate their holiday gatherings, consider pairing these bars with a glass of mulled wine or cider. The spices in the bars will echo the flavors of the drink, making for a cohesive and delightful tasting experience. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a snack, these bars will surely bring joy to your festive occasions.

Ingredients

For the Bars

1 ½ cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, apricots, cranberries)
1 cup rolled oats
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Glaze

½ cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon mulled wine
Zest of 1 orange

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly before baking to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper.

Prepare the Fruit Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits with 1/4 cup of warm water to soften them for about 10 minutes.

Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine All Ingredients

Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, then fold in the softened fruits until everything is evenly mixed.

Bake the Bars

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.

Prepare the Glaze

While the bars are baking, whisk together the powdered sugar, mulled wine, and orange zest to make the glaze.

Cool and Glaze

Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top.

Cut and Serve

Cut into squares or bars and serve. Enjoy these delightful treats with friends and family!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh for days.

Storage Tips

To keep your Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead treat for holiday gatherings. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider wrapping them individually and freezing them. They can be enjoyed even after the holidays, providing a cozy treat during the cold months ahead.

When ready to enjoy frozen bars, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours, or microwave them for a quick warm-up. This way, you can always have a delicious snack on hand, perfect for unexpected guests or a cozy night in.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to personalize your Spiced Mulled Wine Fruit Bars to suit your taste preferences. Swap out the dried fruits for your favorites, such as figs or dates, or add in some chopped nuts for an extra crunch. The recipe is forgiving and allows for creativity, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices or add-ins to make these bars uniquely yours.

For a more decadent treat, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled bars instead of the glaze. This adds a rich flavor and a touch of elegance, perfect for special occasions. The flexibility of this recipe ensures that you'll never get bored, allowing you to enjoy these bars in many delightful ways.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried?

Fresh fruit can be used, but it may alter the texture and baking time.

→ How long do these bars last?

They can be stored in an airtight container for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, they freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I use instead of mulled wine in the glaze?

You can substitute with apple juice or a non-alcoholic wine for a similar flavor.