That's It fruit bars are already remarkably clean with only apples and mangoes - no seed oils, artificial ingredients, or preservatives. DIY allows you to control fruit quality and save money while ensuring certified organic sourcing.
Based on: That’s It Fruit bar
· Makes approximately 20 bars (35g each)
· Serving: 1 bar (35g)
Why This Recipe is Seed Oil Free
Commercial That’s It Fruit bar from That’s It often contains inflammatory seed oils like canola, soybean, or sunflower oil. This homemade version replaces them with healthier fats like butter, ghee, coconut oil, or avocado oil — giving you the same great taste without the processed oils.
The original That’s It Fruit bar may also contain artificial dyes. Check it on DyeFreeCheck to find out.
Ingredients
Organic apples
1000g (about 6-7 medium apples) · Simply Organic Fuji Apples or Whole Foods 365 Organic Apples
Primary fruit base providing natural sweetness, fiber, and binding properties when processed
Organic mangoes
400g (about 2 large mangoes or 1 bag frozen) · Whole Foods 365 Organic Mango or Simple Truth Organic Frozen Mango
Secondary fruit adding tropical sweetness and complementary flavors
Organic lemon juice
15ml (1 tablespoon) · Santa Cruz Organic Lemon Juice
Natural preservative to prevent oxidation and maintain color during processing
Instructions
Step 1. Wash and core the organic apples, leaving skin on for maximum fiber and nutrients. Cut into 1-inch chunks (about 140g per apple). If using fresh mangoes, peel and remove pit, then cut flesh into 1-inch pieces. If using frozen mango, thaw completely and drain excess liquid - this is crucial as excess moisture will prevent proper bar formation.
Step 2. Add apple chunks to food processor first and pulse 8-10 times to break down into smaller pieces. The goal is a coarse, chunky texture rather than smooth puree - over-processing creates a paste that won't form cohesive bars. Scrape down sides with a spatula between pulses.
Step 3. Add mango pieces and lemon juice to the food processor. Pulse another 6-8 times until mixture reaches a consistency where fruits are broken down but still maintain some texture - think chunky jam rather than baby food. The mixture should hold together when pressed but not be completely smooth. Total processing time should be 2-3 minutes maximum.
Step 4. Test the mixture by pressing a small amount in your palm - it should stick together without being wet or crumbly. If too wet, add a handful of the reserved apple pieces and pulse briefly. If too dry, add 1 teaspoon of water and pulse once.
Step 5. Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal. Press fruit mixture evenly into pan using a spatula or your hands (slightly damp hands prevent sticking). Aim for 1/2 inch thickness throughout - use a measuring cup bottom to compress and level the surface.
Step 6. Refrigerate uncovered for 4-6 hours or until firm enough to cut cleanly. The bars should feel set but still slightly yielding when pressed. Using a sharp knife, cut into 20 bars (4x5 grid). Each bar should weigh approximately 35g to match commercial serving size.
Step 7. For storage, wrap individual bars in parchment paper or store in airtight container with parchment between layers. Bars keep 5-7 days refrigerated or can be frozen for up to 3 months. Eat directly from fridge for firm texture, or let sit 10 minutes at room temperature for softer consistency.
Step 8. To achieve commercial-style texture, consider dehydrating the formed mixture in a food dehydrator at 135°F for 6-8 hours instead of refrigerating, checking every 2 hours and rotating trays. This creates a chewier, more shelf-stable result similar to store-bought versions.
Storage
Store wrapped bars in refrigerator for up to 1 week or freeze for 3 months. No preservatives means shorter shelf life than commercial versions but maximum freshness.
Cost Comparison
Cost per serving (homemade)$0.73
Cost per serving (store-bought)$1.50
Savings51%
Higher upfront ingredient cost but significant per-serving savings. Organic certification and freshness control justify premium over commercial versions.