Are you craving a vibrant, refreshing treat that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious? Look no further! This Mango Fruit Bar recipe is the perfect answer for a quick dessert, a healthy snack, or even a delightful addition to your next gathering. Bursting with the sweet and tangy flavor of ripe mangoes, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals. Homemade cooking has never been simpler!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups ripe mangoes, peeled and diced (about 2 medium)
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts work well)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Mangoes: Start by peeling and dicing your mangoes. Make sure they're ripe and juicy for the best flavor. You can use a food processor to quickly dice them if you prefer.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts. Mixing these ahead helps ensure even distribution in the final bars.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the diced mangoes, honey (or maple syrup), lime juice, vanilla extract, and salt. The lime juice adds a lovely zing that complements the sweetness of the mango.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, making sure everything is well coated. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 5: Press into a Pan: Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to help with lifting the bars later. Press the mango mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan.
Step 6: Chill and Cut: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the bars to firm up. Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares.
Tips for Success:
- Mango Ripeness: Use ripe, but not overripe, mangoes for the best flavor and texture. Overripe mangoes can become mushy.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your preference. If your mangoes are particularly sweet, you may need less.
- Nut Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts or even seeds, such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
- Add-ins: Get creative! Consider adding dried cranberries, chopped chocolate, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor and texture.
Variations:
- Tropical Twist: Add a few tablespoons of shredded pineapple or passion fruit pulp for an extra tropical kick.
- Chocolate Mango Bars: Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the chilled bars before cutting.
- Vegan Option: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate for one bar is:
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 7-10g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Protein: 2-3g
This Mango Fruit Bar recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can easily make at home. It's a perfect healthy meal option or a satisfying snack. These bars are also great for meal prepping, making them ideal for busy weeknights and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!