Apricot Bars

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet dried apricots and buttery crust that makes Apricot Bars a favorite in any dessert repertoire. These bars are not only incredibly delicious but also versatile enough to serve as a delightful snack or a sweet ending to a meal. With their chewy texture and nutty undertones, they are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Let’s dive into the world of Apricot Bars and discover how easy it is to whip up this treat in your own kitchen.

Why This Apricot Bars Stands Out

What makes these Apricot Bars truly special is the balance of flavors and textures. The sweet, slightly tangy apricots are complemented perfectly by the crunch of toasted walnuts, while the buttery base holds everything together in a delightful way. These bars are not overly sweet, allowing the natural flavor of the apricots to shine through, making them a guilt-free indulgence. Plus, they’re simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.

What We’re Using

To create these scrumptious Apricot Bars, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
• 1 pinch salt
• 1/2 cup (1 Stick) chilled unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 cup dried apricot halves, chopped finely
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped toasted walnuts
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar for dusting

Appliances & Accessories

Before you start baking, ensure you have the following appliances and accessories handy:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients.
• 9×9-inch Baking Pan: This is ideal for baking the bars evenly.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing your wet ingredients.
• Spatula: For spreading the mixture in the pan smoothly.
• Oven: Preheat it to the right temperature for baking.

Apricot Bars: From Prep to Plate

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s make some Apricot Bars!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly and have that lovely golden color.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add 1/2 cup of chilled unsalted butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While the crust is baking, in a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. In another bowl, beat together 2 large eggs, 1 cup of packed light brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the finely chopped dried apricots and the chopped toasted walnuts until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Assemble the Bars

Once the crust has finished baking, remove it from the oven and pour the apricot filling over the hot crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake the Bars

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly browned on top.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar, slice into bars, and serve.

Adaptations for Special Diets

If you or someone you know has dietary restrictions, here are a few adaptations you can make:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute in place of the unsalted butter.
• Vegan: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Baking is an art, and even seasoned bakers can stumble. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid dense bars.
• Not Preheating: Always preheat your oven; it’s essential for even baking.
• Underbaking: Make sure the bars are set before removing them to avoid a gooey center.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to get clean cuts.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

These Apricot Bars are perfect for making ahead of time. Here’s how to store them:

• Once cooled, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped bars in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ

Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried?

Using fresh apricots is not recommended as they contain more moisture, which can affect the texture of the bars. Dried apricots provide the right sweetness and consistency.

Can I make these Apricot Bars without nuts?

Absolutely! You can simply omit the walnuts or replace them with another ingredient like seeds for added texture.

How should I store the Apricot Bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the freezer for longer storage.

Can I add spices to the recipe?

Yes! Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an extra layer of flavor.

Because You Liked This

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction
• Pinch of Yum
• Minimalist Baker

See You at the Table

These Apricot Bars are a delightful treat that brings a touch of sweetness to any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or enjoying them with a cup of tea, they are sure to please. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor every bite of these delicious bars. Happy baking!