Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious way to add some extra goodness to your diet? Look no further than dried fruit! With its chewy texture and burst of flavor, dried fruit is a great addition to a variety of recipes. From sweet treats like cookies and muffins, to savory dishes like chutneys and salads, there are countless ways to use dried fruit in your cooking.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and easy-to-make recipes that feature dried fruit as the star ingredient. From classic trail mix to innovative energy balls and baked goods, we’ve got you covered with a range of tasty and healthy ideas. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in the sweet and tangy world of dried fruit!
Homemade Dried Fruit Trail Mix
Looking for a healthy and delicious snack to fuel your adventures? Look no further! This homemade dried fruit trail mix recipe is easy to make, customizable, and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (cranberries, apricots, raisins)
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or chunks
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the dried fruits, rolled oats, and chopped nuts.
2. Melt the honey in a microwave-safe bowl for 10-15 seconds or until smooth.
3. Pour the melted honey over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Add the dark chocolate chips or chunks and fold into the mixture.
5. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and enjoy!
Dried Apricot and Almond Energy Balls
Boost your energy levels with these nutritious and delicious bite-sized treats, packed with the goodness of dried apricots and almonds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the oats, chopped apricots, and sliced almonds.
2. In a small saucepan, heat the honey and coconut oil over low heat until the honey dissolves.
3. Pour the honey mixture over the oat mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These energy balls are ready to eat straight away or can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Dried Apricot and Almond Energy Balls!
Spiced Dried Fruit Chutney
Spiced Dried Fruit Chutney: A Sweet and Spicy Delight
This flavorful chutney is perfect for topping naan, yogurt, or using as a condiment for your favorite Indian dishes. The combination of dried fruits, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness will add a delightful twist to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, apricots, raisins)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine dried fruit, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
2. Add cinnamon, cardamom, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce heat to low and let chutney cook for 20-25 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dried Fig and Walnut Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the natural sweetness of dried figs with the earthy taste of walnuts, perfect for a snack or as a side to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup dried figs, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, milk, eggs, chopped figs, and walnuts.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in honey.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dried Cherry and Dark Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies
Sweet and savory come together in these chewy cookies featuring dried cherries and dark chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add the oat mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped cherries and dark chocolate chips.
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
Dried Mango and Coconut Smoothie
This refreshing smoothie combines the sweetness of dried mango with the creaminess of coconut milk, perfect for a hot summer day or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen dried mango
– 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine frozen dried mango, unsweetened coconut milk, and sliced banana.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes for a thicker texture.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Dried Cranberry and Orange Scones
These sweet and tangy scones are perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat. The combination of dried cranberries, orange zest, and citrusy glaze creates a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to please.
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 orange zest
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– Orange glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, egg, and orange zest. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in dried cranberries.
4. Turn dough onto floured surface and gently knead a few times until it comes together. Pat into an 8-inch circle.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Orange Glaze:
1. Whisk together 2 tablespoons powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice.
2. Drizzle over warm scones while they’re still on the baking sheet.
Dried Plum and Cinnamon Compote
Warm Up with a Rich Dried Plum and Cinnamon Compote
This compote is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, making it an excellent accompaniment to yogurt, oatmeal, or even ice cream. The dried plums add natural sweetness, while the cinnamon provides a warm and comforting flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried plums (prunes)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the dried plums, sugar, and water.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened and the plums are rehydrated.
3. Stir in the butter and cinnamon until melted and well combined.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Dried Pineapple and Cashew Granola Bars
These chewy granola bars are packed with the sweetness of dried pineapple and the crunch of toasted cashews. Perfect for a quick energy boost or a healthy treat on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup dried pineapple, chopped
– 1/2 cup cashews, toasted and chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together honey and coconut oil. Pour over oat mixture and stir until combined.
4. Fold in chopped pineapple and cashews.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Dried Blueberry and Lemon Scones
Sweet and tangy, these Dried Blueberry and Lemon Scones are a perfect treat for any time of day. With the combination of sweet dried blueberries and bright citrus lemon zest, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
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 teaspoon dried blueberry zest (about 1/2 cup dried blueberries)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°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 mixture over crumbly dough and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in dried blueberry zest.
6. Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
7. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges or use biscuit cutter to cut shapes.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each scone.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Dried Apple and Cinnamon Oatmeal
Warm up with a delicious bowl of Dried Apple and Cinnamon Oatmeal! This comforting breakfast recipe combines the sweetness of dried apples with the warmth of cinnamon, all wrapped up in a hearty oatmeal package.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup dried apple rings, chopped
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats, honey, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired consistency.
4. Stir in the chopped dried apple rings.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dried Peach and Ginger Tea Cake
This moist and flavorful tea cake is infused with the sweet aroma of dried peaches and the spicy warmth of ginger, perfect for a cozy afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup dried peaches, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add egg and mix until smooth. Add chopped peaches and honey; stir to combine.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Dried Banana and Peanut Butter Bites
Sweet and satisfying, these bite-sized treats are perfect for a healthy snack or dessert. Made with dried banana and creamy peanut butter, they’re also easy to make!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place banana slices on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until bananas are dry and chewy.
3. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
4. In a small bowl, mix peanut butter and honey until smooth.
5. Once bananas have cooled, spread about 1/2 teaspoon of the peanut butter mixture onto each banana slice.
6. Roll oats into small balls (about 1/4 inch in diameter). Place one oat ball on top of each peanut butter-covered banana slice.
7. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dried Pear and Hazelnut Salad
This sweet and savory salad is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it a great addition to any meal or gathering. The dried pears add natural sweetness, while the hazelnuts provide a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the dried pears, hazelnuts, feta cheese, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Dried Date and Walnut Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken dish with the sweet and savory combination of dried dates and walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup chopped dried dates
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together dried dates, walnuts, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the date-walnut mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tips: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or quinoa salad. Enjoy!
Dried Raspberry and White Chocolate Muffins
Moist and flavorful, these Dried Raspberry and White Chocolate Muffins are perfect for a breakfast treat or afternoon snack. The combination of sweet white chocolate and tart dried raspberries creates a delightful contrast that will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup dried raspberries
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
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, whisk together melted butter, egg, and milk.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in dried raspberries and white chocolate chips.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dried Papaya and Lime Chia Pudding
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of dried papaya with the zesty flavor of lime, all wrapped up in a nutritious and filling chia pudding. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a burst of sunshine.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup dried papaya, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds, almond milk, honey, and salt. Stir well to combine.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until chia pudding forms.
3. Just before serving, stir in chopped dried papaya and lime juice.
4. Spoon into individual serving cups or a large glass jar. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-24 hours (depending on refrigeration time)
Dried Strawberry and Yogurt Parfait
A sweet and refreshing dessert that combines the natural sweetness of dried strawberries with the tanginess of yogurt, perfect for a quick treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup dried strawberries (rehydrated in water or honey)
– 1 tablespoon granola or crushed nuts
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, rehydrate the dried strawberries by soaking them in water or honey for about 10 minutes.
2. Spoon the Greek yogurt into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top the yogurt with the rehydrated strawberries and sprinkle with granola or crushed nuts.
4. If desired, drizzle with a little honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required, as this is an assembly-style dessert.
Summary
Indulge in the natural sweetness of dried fruits with these 18 delicious recipes! From sweet treats like Dried Cherry and Dark Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies to healthy snacks like Homemade Dried Fruit Trail Mix, there’s something for everyone. Try making Spiced Dried Fruit Chutney as a condiment or use dried figs in Dried Fig and Walnut Bread. Plus, discover creative ways to incorporate dried fruits into savory dishes like Dried Date and Walnut Stuffed Chicken. With these nutritious recipes, you’ll be snacking smart and satisfying your sweet tooth.
