Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines sweetness and a buttery crunch, you’ve come to the right place! This Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. Every time I make these bars, they bring back warm memories of family gatherings and sunny afternoons spent enjoying dessert on the patio. They’re perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch, packing snacks for a picnic, or simply treating yourself after a long day.

What makes this recipe so special is how simple it is to prepare while still being bursting with flavor. The combination of chewy apricots and crumbly shortbread will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe handy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, anyone can whip up these delicious bars in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet apricot filling paired with the buttery crust.
• Make ahead: These bars are perfect for prepping in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight!
• Versatile dessert: Ideal for any gathering—birthdays, potlucks, or even just a cozy night at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients! You’ll find that this Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe calls for simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. They blend beautifully together to create something truly scrumptious.

For the Shortbread Crust

• 3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups (340g or 3 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Apricot Filling

• 2 cups (about 350-400g) dried apricots, roughly chopped
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (adjust to taste depending on apricot sweetness)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but highly recommended for depth of flavor)
• Pinch of salt

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add nuts: For some extra crunch, consider adding chopped almonds or walnuts to the shortbread topping.
• Try different fruits: Swap out apricots for dried peaches or cherries for a unique flavor twist.
• Use whole wheat flour: For a healthier version, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Sweeten it up: Feel free to drizzle some honey over the filling before adding the topping for added sweetness.

How to Make Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apricot Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped dried apricots, water, and sugar. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat while stirring occasionally. Once it’s bubbling happily away, reduce the heat and let it cook gently until the apricots are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. This step is crucial because it transforms those dried apricots into a luscious filling! After cooking, stir in fresh lemon juice and almond extract for that zingy flavor boost. Allow this lovely mixture to cool slightly while you work on your shortbread crust.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper—this makes removing your bars super easy later! In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add cold cubed butter into this dry mixture and cut it in until it resembles coarse crumbs. This technique helps maintain that delightful crumbly texture! Lightly beat an egg with vanilla extract in another bowl and mix it into your dough until it starts coming together but remains crumbly.

Step 3: Assemble Your Bars

Reserve about 1 ½ to 2 cups of dough for later use as topping. Press the remaining dough evenly into your prepared baking pan—use your fingers or the bottom of a measuring cup for an even crust. Spread that beautiful cooled apricot filling over it while leaving a small border around edges; trust me—it adds charm!

Step 4: Crumble and Bake

Now comes the fun part! Crumble your reserved shortbread dough over that fragrant apricot layer evenly. Pop it in your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes until everything looks golden brown and deliciously bubbly.

Step 5: Cool and Cut Your Bars

Once baked to perfection, remove your pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Patience here is key; if you cut them too soon, they may crumble apart! After about 2-3 hours at room temperature (or faster in the fridge), lift those gorgeous bars out using parchment paper if you went that route. Slice them into squares or bars using a sharp knife—cleaning between cuts gives you those perfect edges!

And there you have it—your very own batch of Apricot Shortbread Bars ready to be enjoyed! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

Making these delightful Apricot Shortbread Bars is a joy, and with a few insider tips, you can elevate your baking game even further!

• Use cold butter: Cold butter is essential for achieving that flaky texture in the shortbread. It helps to create steam during baking, resulting in a light and tender crust.

• Don’t rush the cooling time: Allowing the bars to cool completely after baking is crucial for setting the filling and ensuring clean cuts. Patience here pays off with perfectly shaped squares!

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Dried apricots can vary in sweetness. Taste your filling before adding all of the sugar to ensure it’s just right for your palate.

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other extracts such as vanilla or orange zest for a unique twist! This will give your bars an extra layer of flavor that can surprise and delight.

• Store properly: To keep your bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator if you prefer a firmer texture. They can last several days, making them perfect for sharing!

How to Serve Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

These Apricot Shortbread Bars are not only delicious on their own but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas to make them even more appealing!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the flavors.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted almonds or pistachios for added crunch and a nutty contrast to the soft filling.
• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of fresh mint can brighten up the presentation and add a refreshing element.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream is a perfect counterpart to the fruity tartness of the apricot filling.
• Greek yogurt with honey: A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey complements the sweetness of the bars while adding a creamy texture.
• Fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance alongside the rich shortbread bars.
• Herbal tea: Serve these bars with a warm cup of herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat, enhancing their comforting qualities.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be able to create an unforgettable experience with your Apricot Shortbread Bars! Enjoy every bite and happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apricot Shortbread Bars are perfect for meal prep. They store beautifully and can be made ahead of time for gatherings or simply to have a sweet treat on hand for the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Item: Allow the bars to cool completely before storing.
• Item: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Item: For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Item: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Item: Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Item: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• Item: If you prefer warm bars, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Item: Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Item: Enjoy warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for extra sweetness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

Can I substitute fresh apricots in the Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe?

Yes, while dried apricots give a concentrated flavor, you can use fresh apricots. Just remember that you’ll need to adjust the sugar and cooking time accordingly since fresh apricots contain more moisture.

How long do Apricot Shortbread Bars last?

When stored properly, these delicious bars can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. If you’re freezing them, they can be kept for up to 3 months!

What can I use instead of butter in the Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe?

For a dairy-free option, you can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based buttery spread. This will give you similar texture and richness!

Can I add nuts to the Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts would add great texture and flavor. Just fold them into the shortbread dough before pressing it into the pan.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Apricot Shortbread Bars as much as I do! They’re not just delicious; they’re also versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee or sharing them at a gathering, they are sure to delight everyone. Happy baking, and don’t hesitate to try different variations that suit your taste!