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Education > FAQ's > Holiday Recipe Holiday Recipe: Cranberry Date BarsQ: I've got a horrible sweet tooth that can't be tamed this time of year; can you suggest any low-fat, high energy, and high flavor desserts I can prepare that are fairly healthy? A: For a yummy energy treat that is high in carbohydrates, rich in taste, easy to prepare, and low in fat, try these cookie bars. You can also vary the filling by using other preserves or jam. To increase the fat content, use 1-2% milk or a cup of margarine or butter instead of 1/2 cup. To increase the protein content, play around with protein powder and a slightly increased amount of skim milk to keep texture to your liking. FILLINGCombine the following in a medium saucepan and cook covered over low heat, 10-15 minutes or until cranberries pop, stirring frequently. 12 oz. bag cranberries (craisins can be used off season; thaw frozen cranberries ahead of time); 8 oz. package of chopped dates; 1/4 c. water; 1 t. vanilla. Set aside to cool slightly. COOKIE/TOPPINGIn large mixing bowl, stir together 2 c. flour, 2 c. quick-cooking oats, 1 1/2 c. brown sugar, 1/2 tsp. baking soda, 1/4 tsp. salt. Stir in 1/2 c. melted margarine and 1/2 c. skim milk until well blended. Pat half of oat mixture onto bottom of 13x9x2" baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 8 minutes. Spread filling over baked mixture and sprinkle with remaining oat mixture, patting gently to cover entire surface (oat mixture should be fairly crumbly, not super moist.) Bake for another 15-20 minutes (until top is golden brown.) OPTIONAL GLAZEMix 2 c. powdered sugar, 2 T orange juice, and 1/2 tsp. vanilla. Stir additional orange juice 1 tsp at a time until drizzle consistency, and drizzle over cooled cookie bars. Nutritional value (without glaze) Entire recipe as written makes 4 dozen bite-sized flavor-filled treats, 100 calories each, 70% carbs, 15% fat, 10% protein. Enjoy and let us know what you think! |
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