Old Fashioned Persimmon Bars with Oatmeal Topping Recipe

Growing up in rural Oregon, fall was special in my grandmother’s kitchen. It was the time when persimmons turned from hard to sweet and silky. She would pick the ripest Fuyu persimmons and prepare them for her famous old fashioned persimmon bars with oatmeal topping.

This dessert recipe is more than just a treat. It’s a link to memories, changing seasons, and family traditions. With a few ingredients and some baking, you can make a dessert that tastes like fall.

Key Takeaways

• Learn an authentic old fashioned persimmon bars with oatmeal topping recipe
• Discover the versatility of persimmons in autumn baking
• Create a nostalgic dessert that celebrates seasonal flavors
• Understand the importance of selecting the right persimmon variety
• Explore a family-inspired recipe with rich culinary heritage

Introduction to Persimmon Bars

When autumn comes, I get excited about vintage persimmon treats. They capture the essence of the season. Persimmon oatmeal bars are a cherished family recipe passed down through generations. They bring warmth and nostalgia to my kitchen.

What Are Persimmons?

Persimmons are remarkable fruits with a unique history. They come in two main varieties: American (Diospyros virginiana) and Asian (Diospyros kaki). These delightful fruits offer a sweet, honey-like flavor. This flavor changes completely when they are fully ripe.

• American persimmons are astringent and require full ripeness
• Asian persimmons include both astringent and non-astringent types
• Hachiya persimmons are typically best for baking

Why I Love Persimmon Bars

I love persimmon oatmeal bars because they showcase autumn’s bounty. The smooth, sweet persimmon pulp and crunchy oatmeal topping make a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated.

A Brief History of Persimmon Desserts

Vintage persimmon treats have deep roots in American culinary tradition. Early settlers learned about these fascinating fruits from Native American communities. By the early 20th century, persimmon desserts became a beloved staple in many households.

From farm tables to modern kitchens, persimmon bars represent a delicious connection to our agricultural heritage.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making tasty fall persimmon recipes starts with picking the right ingredients. My grandma’s persimmon oat bars use a mix of fresh and pantry items. These ingredients highlight the autumn flavors beautifully.

Fresh Persimmons: The Star Ingredient

For these classic bars, pick ripe persimmons at their best. Use Fuyu or Hachiya types for their special textures and sweetness. A cup of persimmon pulp needs 3-4 soft fruits.

Essential Baking Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

Warm Spices to Enhance Flavor

To get the fall feel, add warm spices that match the persimmons:

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ⅛ teaspoon allspice

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Crunch

For a special touch, try these mix-ins:

• ⅓ cup old-fashioned oats
• ¼ cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ¼ cup white chocolate chips

These ingredients turn your kitchen into a cozy autumn baking spot. Each one is key to making a treat that celebrates fall persimmon recipes.

Preparing the Persimmons

Making delicious persimmon squares with oat crumble topping begins with picking the right persimmons. As a passionate baker, I’ve found that the secret to great retro persimmon snacks is knowing these fruits well.

Choosing the right persimmons is critical. I suggest focusing on two main types:

• American Persimmons: Look for fruits that are extremely soft and almost translucent
• Asian Persimmons: Can be used when they’re relatively firm

Selecting the Perfect Persimmons

When searching for the perfect persimmons, keep these tips in mind:

1. Look for deep, rich colors
2. Gently press the fruit – it should yield slightly to pressure
3. Avoid fruits with bruises or dark spots

Ripening Techniques

Want to speed up ripening? Try these easy tricks for your retro persimmon snacks:

• Place unripe persimmons in a paper bag
• Add a ripe banana or apple to release ethylene gas
• Keep the bag at room temperature
• Check daily until desired softness is achieved

Preparation Steps

Preparing persimmons for your oat crumble topping needs careful steps:

1. Wash the fruits thoroughly
2. Remove any remaining leaves
3. For American persimmons, scoop out pulp and strain through a fine mesh
4. For Asian persimmons, remove skin and puree whole

With these tips, you’ll be set to make tasty persimmon squares that bring back the charm of classic desserts!

Making the Oatmeal Topping

Creating the perfect oatmeal topping is key to making persimmon oatmeal bars special. It turns them into nostalgic treats that remind us of happy times. The right mix of ingredients makes these bars truly special.

Oats and Their Nutritional Benefits

Oats are not just tasty; they’re also packed with nutrients. I suggest mixing old-fashioned and quick oats for the best texture. These grains are full of health benefits:

• High in dietary fiber
• Rich in essential minerals
• Provides sustained energy
• Supports heart health

Sweetening the Topping

For a memorable persimmon pastry, balance is key. I use brown sugar and a bit of honey to enhance the persimmon’s natural sweetness. This mix creates a deep, rich flavor that makes the bars hard to resist.

Adding Crunch with Nuts and Seeds

To elevate your persimmon oatmeal bars, add some crunch. My top picks are:

• Chopped pecans
• Toasted walnuts
• Pumpkin seeds
• Sliced almonds

These add a nice texture and boost the bars’ nutrition. You get a treat that’s good for you and tastes great.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Making these fall persimmon recipes needs care and love. I’ll show you how to make old fashioned persimmon bars with oatmeal topping. Your kitchen will fill with warmth and amazing smells.

Prepping the Baking Dish

Begin with an 8×8 inch baking dish. Grease it well with butter or cooking spray. This step helps the bars come out easily after baking.

Mixing the Persimmon Base

• Use 2 ripe Hachiya persimmons for maximum flavor
• Blend persimmon pulp until smooth
• Mix with 1 egg and 1/4 cup agave nectar
• Combine dry ingredients separately

Crafting the Oatmeal Topping

The secret to these bars is the perfectly crumbly oatmeal topping. Mix 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats with brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon. Aim for a mix that’s crunchy yet tender.

Baking to Perfection

Let the bars cool completely before cutting. You’ll get a delicious dessert that tastes like autumn!

Tips for Perfect Bars

Making the ultimate vintage persimmon treats needs some baking skill. I’ve spent years perfecting this classic persimmon dessert recipe. Here are some key tips to make your bars delicious.

Mastering Sweetness Levels

Getting the sweetness right is key for a great persimmon dessert. Persimmons can be very sweet or not, so taste them first. Here’s how to adjust sugar levels:

• Taste the persimmon pulp first
• Adjust sugar incrementally
• Use less sugar for very ripe, sweet persimmons
• Add slightly more sugar for less ripe fruits

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

Texture is important for tasty vintage persimmon treats. If the persimmon mix is too watery, simmer it to thicken. For the topping, spread it evenly and press down gently.

Checking for Doneness Like a Pro

Knowing when your persimmon bars are done is key:

Pro tip: It’s better to slightly underbake than overbake. The bars will set as they cool, giving a tender texture like grandma’s kitchen.

Storing Your Persimmon Bars

After making your old fashioned persimmon bars with oatmeal topping, it’s important to store them right. This keeps their flavor and texture amazing. I’ve learned that storing them smartly makes them stay fresh and tasty.

Best Storage Practices

To keep your persimmon bars perfect, follow a few easy steps. Cool them down completely, then cut them into squares. Store them in an airtight container to keep moisture in and their texture soft.

• Room temperature storage: 2-3 days
• Refrigerator storage: Up to 1 week
• Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking

How Long Do They Last?

Your homemade persimmon bars will stay fresh for days with the right care. For longer storage, refrigeration is best. It keeps the bars moist and prevents spoilage.

Freezing for Later Enjoyment

Want to save some bars for later? Freezing is a great choice! Wrap each bar in plastic wrap, then bag them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be good for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or microwave for a quick warm-up.

Pro tip: Always check out some additional baking inspiration at creative recipe websites for more storage tips and flavor ideas!

Ways to Serve Persimmon Bars

Discovering the perfect way to serve persimmon squares with oat crumble topping can make your fall recipes stand out. These bars are versatile and loved by all, perfect for any event.

Pairing with Whipped Cream

Serving these bars with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream is a classic choice. It adds a cool touch to the warm spices. For a richer treat, try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the bars.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast option: Pair with hot coffee or spiced chai tea
• Afternoon treat: Serve at room temperature with a light dusting of powdered sugar
• Dessert centerpiece: Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra decadence

Creative Garnishes

Make your fall recipes unforgettable with these garnish ideas:

1. Sprinkle finely chopped crystallized ginger for a zesty kick
2. Add fresh persimmon slices on top for visual appeal
3. Garnish with toasted nuts for extra crunch

“The beauty of persimmon bars lies in their adaptability – each serving can be a unique culinary experience.”

Whether it’s a casual brunch or an elegant dinner, these persimmon squares will wow your guests. Their rich flavor and many serving options make them a hit.

Old Fashioned Persimmon Bars with Oatmeal Topping Recipe

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: ~50 minutes
• Yield: 12 bars
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These old-fashioned persimmon bars are soft, spiced, and bursting with fall flavors. Topped with a crunchy oatmeal topping, they make the perfect cozy treat for the holidays or a comforting snack with tea.

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Ingredients

For the Bars:

• 1 cup persimmon pulp (from ripe Hachiya persimmons)

• 1 tsp baking soda

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ¾ cup brown sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• ¼ tsp nutmeg

• ¼ tsp cloves

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

• ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

For the Oatmeal Topping:

• ½ cup rolled oats

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• ¼ tsp cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

2. In a small bowl, mix persimmon pulp with baking soda and let sit for 5 minutes (it will thicken).

3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

5. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

7. Stir in persimmon pulp, followed by the optional nuts and raisins.

8. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.

9. In a small bowl, mix oats, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle evenly over the batter.

10. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

11. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.

Notes

• Use fully ripe Hachiya persimmons for the best texture and sweetness. The pulp should be jelly-like.

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
• Category: Dessert, Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: persimmon bars, old-fashioned persimmon recipe, oatmeal topping, fall dessert, persimmon baking

Variations on the Classic Recipe

I love trying new things with classic recipes. Turning my traditional persimmon dessert recipe into something new is fun. These retro persimmon snacks are great because you can make them your own.

Adapting this recipe opens up many tasty options. You can keep the original’s charm while meeting different dietary needs.

Vegan and Dairy-Free Options

Making vegan persimmon bars is easy. Here’s how to do it:

• Swap butter for coconut oil or plant-based butter
• Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg)
• Choose almond or oat milk instead of regular milk

Gluten-Free Substitutions

For those who can’t have gluten, making this classic dessert is easy:

• Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour
• Make sure oats are gluten-free
• Check that all ingredients are gluten-free

Flavor Profile Explorations

Try new things with these bars. Add exciting mix-ins:

• Tropical twist: Add shredded coconut to the oatmeal topping
• Dark chocolate chips for a rich, decadent touch
• Dried cranberries or chopped dates for extra texture
• A splash of bourbon for an adult-friendly version

By trying these variations, you can make the classic persimmon bar recipe your own. It’s a fun way to explore new flavors and meet your dietary needs.

Nutritional Information Breakdown

When I first tried grandma’s persimmon oat bars, I was curious about their nutrition. These treats are not just tasty. A slice of these persimmon oatmeal bars has about 204 calories. They offer a good mix of nutrients, making them more than a sweet snack.

Persimmons are full of health benefits. They grow wild in Southern Indiana and Illinois. Each slice has 4 grams of protein, 33 grams of carbs, and 6 grams of fat. They also have 50 IU of Vitamin A and 0.4 mg of Vitamin C.

These bars are good for those watching their diet. They have only 1 gram of fiber and 11 grams of sugar per slice. Enjoy them in moderation for their taste and nutritional value.

The bars also have trace minerals like calcium (38 mg) and iron (1.3 mg). They are a healthier dessert option. Whether you’re health-conscious or just love treats, these bars are a tasty choice.