Almond Fig Bars
Combining the rich taste of almonds with the refreshing tang of citrus, these fruit-rich bars can satisfy your sweet touch without any added sugar. The figs, oats and citrus peel provide protective soluble fiber, while the citrus peel provides protective phytochemicals, including limonene. Enjoy these nourishing treats for dessert or as a healthier alternative to a breakfast muffin.
- 3 oz salted butter, preferably organic, melted
- 1 cup freshly-squeezed orange juice (from about 2 large oranges)
- 1 lg tangerine, washed & cut into 1/8th (skin & all)
- 6 oz dried figs
- 1 cup rolled oats, gluten-free
- 1 tsp baking powder, preferably aluminum-free
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 lg eggs
- 1 tsp almond extract
- ½ cup roasted & slivered almonds
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Melt butter in microwave. Use enough of this butter to coat the bottom and sides of a 2 1/2 quart baking dish with 2 inch sides. Set buttered baking dish aside.
Mix together the orange juice, figs, and tangerine in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat for about 15 min until figs are softened. Set aside to cool slightly.
Meanwhile, place the oats, baking powder, salt, melted butter, eggs, and almond extract in food processor. Add the fruit mixture. Process until thoroughly mixed. Then add the almonds and pulse briefly to barely incorporate the almonds.
Place the stiff batter in the buttered baking dish. Bake at 350-degrees F. for about 25 minutes or until a knife placed in center comes out clean. Allow to cool and cut into bare.
Makes 16 servings. Each serving provides about 130 calories, 3g protein, 8g fat (3g sat), 38 mg cholesterol, 14g carbohydrate (7g sugar, 2g fiber), 40 mg calcium, 30 mg magnesium, 190 mg sodium, 175 mg potassium.