Go Back

Homemade Strawberry Nutrigrain Bars

Delicious homemade strawberry nutrigrain bars that bring back memories of family picnics with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the dough
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour For making the base of the bars.
  • 3/4 cup whole wheat flour Adds whole grain nutrients.
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar Provides sweetness along with a molasses flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar Extra for sweetness.
  • 3/4 teaspoon baking powder Leavening agent for the dough.
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances flavor.
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, very cold and cubed Key for flaky texture.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds aromatic flavor.
  • 2 eggs, whisked Binds the ingredients.
For the filling
  • 6 ounces fresh strawberries Main fruit ingredient.
  • 4 ounces pitted Medjool dates Natural sweetener for filling.
  • 1/4 cup spiced rum Adds a unique flavor.
  • 1/2 tablespoon honey Additional sweetness for filling.
  • 1/2 lemon zest and juice from half a lemon Brightens the filling.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds warmth and spice.
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves Enhances spice profile.
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg Complements other spices.
  • 1 pinch salt Balances sweetness.

Method
 

Preparation of Dough
  1. Add the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and kosher salt into a food processor. Pulse until well mixed.
  2. Introduce the cubed butter into the mixture, pulsing until the butter is integrated and the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and about three-quarters of the whisked eggs. Pulse until the dough begins to come together.
  4. Shape the dough into a rectangle, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preparation of Filling
  1. In a saucepan, combine the fresh strawberries, Medjool dates, spiced rum, honey, lemon zest, juice, and spices. Simmer for about 15 minutes until thickened, then cool slightly.
  2. Blend the filling until mostly smooth, leaving a little texture.
Assembly and Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. Roll out your dough into long cylinders and slice them into rectangles.
  3. Pipe the filling down the middle of each rectangle, fold over the sides, and pinch them closed.
  4. Place the logs seam side down on a baking sheet and bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Let cool before slicing into bars.

Notes

Ensure your butter is very cold for flaky layers, and feel free to mix and match fillings. Adding oats to the dough can also enhance crunch.