When it comes to healthy snacking, dried fruits are a great option. They’re packed with nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a perfect choice for a quick energy boost or a satisfying treat. But why stop at just munching on dried fruit? By incorporating them into your favorite recipes, you can create delicious and nutritious dishes that will impress even the pickiest of eaters.
In this article, we’ll explore 19 mouth-watering recipes that feature dried fruits as the star ingredient. From sweet treats like energy bites and granola bars to savory dishes like glazed chicken and stir-fries, these recipes showcase the versatility and flavor of dried fruits. So whether you’re a seasoned chef or just looking for some healthy inspiration, keep reading to discover the many delicious ways to use dried fruit in your cooking.
Apricot and Almond Energy Bites
A sweet and satisfying snack, these bite-sized energy balls are packed with nutritious ingredients to keep you fueled on-the-go. Made with rolled oats, apricots, almonds, and a hint of honey, they’re the perfect pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, apricots, and almonds.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the honey until smooth.
3. Add the warmed honey to the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in the chia seeds and salt.
5. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These bite-sized treats are ready to eat straight from the fridge.
Date and Walnut Loaf Cake
This classic cake recipe combines the natural sweetness of dates with the crunch of walnuts, perfect for a snack or dessert. With its moist texture and subtle spices, it’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, combine butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add chopped dates and walnuts to the wet ingredients. Stir until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, then stir in milk.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Trail Mix with Dried Mango and Coconut
Sweet and savory trail mix with dried mango and coconut – a perfect snack for your next adventure!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1 cup dried mango, diced
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup puffed rice cereal
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed nuts and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together dried mango, shredded coconut, and puffed rice cereal.
3. Add the mixture from step 2 to the bowl with the nuts and stir until well combined.
4. Melt dark chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Pour over the nut mixture and stir until coated.
5. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and munch!)
Spiced Fig and Orange Compote
This sweet and tangy compote is perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries. The combination of caramelized figs, orange zest, and warm spices creates a deliciously complex flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried figs, stemmed and chopped
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine figs, orange segments, honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Add the water and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dried Cherry and Dark Chocolate Granola Bars
Satisfy your snack cravings with these deliciously chewy Dried Cherry and Dark Chocolate Granola Bars, perfect for on-the-go or as a treat after dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, dark chocolate chips, and dried cherries. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, maple syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Pour over the dry mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Raisin and Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
Wholesome oatmeal cookies infused with sweet raisins and warm cinnamon, perfect for a cozy snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Add cinnamon to the wet ingredients and mix well.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until just combined. Fold in raisins.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Prune and Ginger Glazed Chicken
A sweet and savory twist on traditional glazed chicken, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of prunes with the warmth of ginger to create a deliciously complex flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup prunes, pitted
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine prunes, ginger, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the prune-ginger glaze.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each breast.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dried Pineapple and Coconut Macaroons
Sweet and chewy macaroons infused with the tropical flavors of dried pineapple and coconut are a perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dried pineapple, chopped
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut, and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, egg whites, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Add chopped dried pineapple to the wet ingredients and stir to combine.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cranberry and Pistachio Biscotti
Elevate your cookie game with these crunchy, flavorful biscotti infused with the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of pistachios. Perfect for dunking in your favorite hot beverage or enjoying as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until smooth. Add cranberries and pistachios; stir until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Shape into two 12-inch logs. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool 10 minutes before slicing into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
7. Return slices to baking sheet and bake an additional 10-12 minutes, or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Fig and Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory chicken breast recipe, featuring caramelized figs and creamy goat cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix crumbled goat cheese and chopped figs.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each breast with the fig-goat cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and honey.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dried Apricot and Almond Tart
This sweet and nutty tart combines the chewy texture of dried apricots with the crunch of toasted almonds, perfect for a dessert or snack. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is ideal for anyone looking to create a delicious and visually appealing treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together chopped apricots, sliced almonds, sugar, honey, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Spread the apricot-almond mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Date and Banana Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a boost of natural energy and creamy texture from this Date and Banana Smoothie Bowl. This recipe combines the sweetness of dates and bananas with the crunch of granola for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup pitted dates, soaked in water for 30 minutes
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– Toppings: granola, sliced banana, and shredded coconut (optional)
Instructions:
1. Blend bananas, soaked dates, almond milk, chia seeds, honey, and salt in a blender until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
3. Top with your choice of granola, sliced banana, and shredded coconut.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Raisin and Carrot Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins combine the natural sweetness of raisins with the warmth of grated carrots, perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, grated carrots, raisins, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dried Mango and Cashew Stir-Fry
Experience the sweet and savory flavors of the East with this unique stir-fry, combining dried mango and cashews for a deliciously exotic treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried mango
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry for an additional minute.
4. Add the dried mango and cashews; stir-fry until well combined and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
7. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Prune and Chocolate Truffles
Elevate your truffle game with the unique combination of prunes and rich chocolate. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a sweet indulgence or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted prunes
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Soak the prunes in water or rum (optional) for at least 2 hours. Drain and chop.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped prunes, melted chocolate, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
5. Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll into balls between your hands. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None required!
Dried Cherry and Almond Rice Pilaf
This flavorful pilaf combines sweet and savory elements, perfect for a side dish or light meal. The chewy texture of dried cherries pairs beautifully with the crunch of toasted almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup dried cherries
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onions. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff the pilaf with a fork. Stir in dried cherries, sliced almonds, and salt to taste. If desired, add thyme.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fig and Walnut Bread
This moist and flavorful bread is perfect for a cozy morning or as a sweet treat any time of the day. The combination of caramelized figs, crunchy walnuts, and warm spices creates a delicious and satisfying loaf.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chopped fresh figs (canned or dried work too)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped figs, walnuts, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dried Blueberry and Lemon Scones
Start your day with a burst of citrusy freshness and sweet dried blueberries in these Dried Blueberry and Lemon Scones. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, these tender scones are easy to make and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup dried blueberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, egg, and lemon juice. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Gently fold in dried blueberries.
6. Pat dough onto prepared baking sheet and shape into a circle or rectangle.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Apricot and Pecan Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
This sweet and savory pork tenderloin is stuffed with a flavorful apricot and pecan mixture, making it a perfect centerpiece for any dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together apricots, pecans, honey, Dijon mustard, and salt.
3. Lay the pork tenderloin flat on a cutting board. Make a horizontal incision in the center of the meat, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff the apricot-pecan mixture into the incision.
5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks if needed.
6. Drizzle the outside of the pork tenderloin with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the natural sweetness of dried fruits with these 19 mouth-watering recipes! From sweet treats like Apricot and Almond Energy Bites and Raisin and Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies, to savory dishes like Prune and Ginger Glazed Chicken and Fig and Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast, there’s something for everyone. Plus, many of these recipes are healthy and perfect for snacking on the go. Discover creative ways to use dried apricots, dates, figs, cherries, blueberries, mangoes, and more in this collection of tasty recipes.
Leave a Reply