Fruit preserve bars are a delicious sweet treat very popular in several Latin American countries and other parts of the world. These bars, known in some places as "oat and fruit bars" or simply "fruit bars," have their origin in the homemade tradition of using preserves or jams that are saved to enjoy during the off-season of the fruits.
In countries like Mexico, Argentina, and Colombia, these bars are prepared as a sweet snack or nutritious treat, especially for children and people looking for a quick and tasty snack. In some places, the recipe includes variations, incorporating different types of nuts or extracts, but the base of oats, flour, and fruit preserves remains constant, giving it a unique flavor and crunchy texture.
How to Make Fruit Preserve Bars
Ingredients: Butter, Brown Sugar, Flour, Baking Soda, Almond Extract, Oats, Fruit Preserves, Almonds.
Steps:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 13x9 inch pan to facilitate later removal.
Cream the butter and brown sugar together until you get a creamy and homogeneous mixture.
Add the flour and baking soda to the mixture and mix well to incorporate all the dry ingredients.
Add the almond extract, which will provide a characteristic aroma and flavor to the bars.
Add the oats, mixing gently so they are distributed evenly in the dough.
Press the mixture into the bottom of the previously greased pan, making sure to spread it well and compact it slightly to form the base.
Spread a layer of fruit preserves over the surface, leaving a space of about 1/2 inch from the outer edge of the pan to prevent it from spilling during baking.
Sprinkle plenty of almonds on top to add texture and a crunchy touch.
Bake at 375 degrees for 22 to 25 minutes or until the surface is golden and firm to the touch.
Let cool completely and then cut into bars of the desired size to enjoy as a snack or dessert.
