Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings a taste of sunshine into your kitchen, this Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe is just what you need! These bars are a wonderful blend of buttery shortbread and sweet apricot filling, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re having a cozy family gathering or simply want to treat yourself during a busy weeknight, these bars will surely bring smiles all around.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to prepare. You’ll find simple ingredients that come together seamlessly, creating a deliciously satisfying treat. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, so you can always have something sweet on hand!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even beginner bakers can whip these up!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet apricot filling paired with the crumbly shortbread.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake them in advance and store them for the perfect snack or dessert throughout the week.
• Versatile flavors: Customize with different fruits or extracts to suit your taste!
• Perfect for sharing: Cut them into bars and serve at parties, potlucks, or just enjoy them with friends over coffee.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create these scrumptious Apricot Shortbread Bars!

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! If you want to switch things up, here are some fun variations to try:

• Add some nuts: Chopped walnuts or almonds can add a delightful crunch.
• Try different fruits: Swap out dried apricots for other dried fruits like peaches or cherries for a unique twist.
• Infuse with spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the filling can give it an extra layer of flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and see how it turns out!

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 the mixture to a simmer over medium heat while stirring occasionally. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 15-20 minutes until the apricots are tender and most liquid is absorbed. Stirring occasionally is key here; it prevents sticking! After cooking, remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice and almond extract if desired. Allow this delicious filling to cool slightly while you prepare the crust.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal—trust me; this step makes life easier! In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add cold butter cubes to this mixture. Whether using your fingertips or a food processor, cut in the butter until it resembles coarse crumbs—some pea-sized pieces should remain for that perfect texture! In another bowl, beat an egg with vanilla extract. Incorporate this mixture into your flour blend until just combined; overmixing could lead to tough bars.

Step 3: Assemble Your Bars

Now it’s time to put these beautiful layers together! Reserve about 1 1/2 to 2 cups of your shortbread dough for topping. Press the remaining dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan—this creates your firm crust. Spread that cooled apricot filling evenly over the crust while leaving a small border around edges if possible.

Step 4: Add Topping & Bake

Crumble the reserved shortbread dough evenly across your apricot filling—it’s okay if some fruit peeks through! Place in your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown on top and edges look lightly browned. Don’t worry if you see some bubbling; that’s just deliciousness happening!

Step 5: Cool & Cut

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack—this step is so important! Cutting while warm means crumbliness; we want nice clean bars instead. Letting them cool completely allows everything to set beautifully; this can take at least 2-3 hours at room temperature—or speed things up by placing them in the fridge after an hour. If using parchment paper, lift out using overhang once cooled and transfer onto a cutting board. Using a sharp knife cut into squares or bars—clean cuts are easier when chilled slightly beforehand!

Enjoy making and sharing these delightful Apricot Shortbread Bars! They truly are comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

Making the perfect Apricot Shortbread Bars can be a joyful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you’ll be on your way to impressing family and friends!

• Use cold butter: Starting with cold butter is crucial as it helps create that wonderfully flaky crust. The cold fat doesn’t fully incorporate into the flour, leaving small pockets that create a tender texture when baked.

• Don’t overmix the dough: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of the light, crumbly texture we love.

• Cool completely before cutting: Allowing the bars to cool thoroughly ensures that they set properly, making them easier to cut into neat squares or bars without crumbling apart.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Depending on the tartness of your apricots, you may want to adjust the sugar in the filling. A taste test before baking can help you achieve the perfect sweetness!

• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the shortbread crust for extra warmth, or try different extracts in the filling like vanilla or orange for a unique twist.

How to Serve Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

Presenting your Apricot Shortbread Bars beautifully can enhance both their appeal and enjoyment. Here are some creative ideas for serving this delightful treat!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant finish and a touch of sweetness.
• Fresh mint leaves: Placing a few fresh mint leaves beside each bar adds a vibrant pop of color and freshness that complements the apricot.
• Zest of lemon or orange: Grating some citrus zest over the top not only enhances presentation but also brightens up the flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm bars, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Greek yogurt: Serving your bars with a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances out the sweetness of the apricots.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a light and healthy side that complements the rich flavors of the shortbread.
• Herbal tea: Pair these bars with a cup of soothing herbal tea such as chamomile or peppermint for a cozy afternoon treat.

Now you’re all set to enjoy your Apricot Shortbread Bars in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apricot Shortbread Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and enjoy them throughout the week, making them a delightful treat for any occasion.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the bars where they can last up to a week.
• Ensure the container is sealed well to maintain texture and flavor.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into squares or rectangles before freezing for convenience.
• Place layers of parchment paper between the bars in an airtight freezer-safe container to prevent sticking.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm bars, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the bars on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes, just until warmed through. Enjoy that fresh-baked taste again!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried in the Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe?

Using fresh apricots is possible but will require adjustments. You’ll need to cook them down more as they have higher water content. Aim for a similar texture as the dried fruit filling.

How do I know when my Apricot Shortbread Bars are done baking?

Look for a golden brown topping and slightly bubbling filling around the edges. The bars should also feel firm when touched lightly.

What can I substitute if I’m out of butter for the Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe?

You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute in equal amounts. This will keep the rich texture while accommodating different dietary preferences.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Ensure your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making these Apricot Shortbread Bars as I am! They bring together a buttery crust and sweet apricot filling that’s simply irresistible. Whether you share them with friends or savor them yourself, they’re sure to brighten your day. Enjoy every bite and remember that baking is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating moments of joy in your kitchen!