Applesauce-Raisin Squares

Twenty-five small squares at 61 calories each. These are the kind of baked goods you can keep on the counter without doing math every time you reach for one.

Applesauce and low-fat yogurt replace most of the fat, whole wheat flour and natural bran add fiber and substance, and the spice blend, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg together, gives these more warmth than a standard oatmeal-type bar. A teaspoon of lemon or orange zest runs through the batter and brightens what would otherwise be a very brown, earth-toned flavor profile.

Sliced almonds get pressed lightly into the top of the batter before baking and toast to a light golden color in the oven. The directions note that the squares will be moist, which is accurate. These are not cakey and dry. They’re dense and a little fudgy in a wholesome way, and they hold up well for several days in an airtight container.

Kitchen Tips

• Mix only until the wet and dry ingredients are just combined. The bran and flour absorb quickly, and a few lumps are fine.
• Press the almond slices into the batter gently, not deeply. They should sit on the surface, not sink in.
• Cool completely in the pan before cutting. These are moist and will crumble if cut warm.
• An 8-inch pan gives 25 small 1.5-inch squares as noted, which is ideal for portion control.

Variations

• Orange zest version: Use orange zest instead of lemon for a warmer, slightly sweeter citrus note that complements the raisins and spices.
• Chocolate chips: Fold in 2 tablespoons of mini chocolate chips with the raisins for a small indulgence that stays low calorie.