166 dried fruit recipes

These no-bake energy bars are delicious yet nutritious. They are easy to make, and handy to pick up.

Oats are a great source of soluble fibre and have been shown to help lower cholesterol levels. Cinnamon is well regarded for its ability to balance sugar levels, thus keeping hunger at bay for longer. Adding flaxseeds or chia seeds boosts the omega-3 oils and adds even more fibre to the dish. The dish can be assembled the night before and left in the fridge for the oats to soften. All that is required the next morning is to add hot milk.

Bircher muesli was first developed by a Swiss physician, Maximilian Bircher-Benner as part of the therapy he prescribed for his patients. Often called simply ‘overnight oats’ Bircher muesli is an ideal breakfast food – it can be assembled the night before, left in the fridge overnight and enjoyed in the morning – there is no cooking required. It's also a perfect combination of plant-based protein, slow-release wholegrain carbohydrates, and essential fats. The version below calls for pears and coconut, but alternative combinations are provided in the notes.

Elegant red wine fruit soup with poached pears, candied orange slices, pineapple, and a crème fraîche finish. A stunning French-inspired dessert layered with star anise, vanilla, and cardamom.

Deep-fried fruit fritters made with apples, pears, and bananas in a light vanilla batter, served with a warm lemon-bourbon sauce. A Creole-inspired dessert.

Chinese toffee-coated apples and bananas with crispy batter and caramel sesame coating. Deep-fried fruit dunked in ice water creates a shatteringly crisp candy shell.