Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort, this Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe is just what you need. The buttery shortbread crust pairs perfectly with the sweet, tangy apricot filling, making it a wonderful addition to any gathering or a cozy evening at home. These bars are not only delicious but are also easy to whip up on busy weeknights or for family get-togethers. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: With just a few easy steps, you can create these scrumptious bars without any fuss.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone from kids to adults will love the sweet apricot filling and crumbly crust.
• Make-ahead convenience: These bars can be made in advance, perfect for parties or snacks throughout the week.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of apricots and buttery shortbread creates a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In this recipe, you’ll find simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

This recipe is quite flexible and can be adapted to suit your taste! Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped almonds or walnuts to the apricot filling for extra crunch and flavor.
• Try different fruits: Substitute dried apricots with dried cherries or peaches for a unique twist.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of cinnamon or ginger to the shortbread dough for an aromatic touch.
• Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour for a gluten-free version.

How to Make Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the 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 starts simmering, reduce the heat to low and cover it. Letting the apricots cook down makes them tender and allows their natural sweetness to shine through. After about 15-20 minutes, remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice and almond extract if you’re using it. Allowing the filling to cool slightly before using helps it set better in the bars.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare your baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Next, add in your cold butter cubes. This step is essential—cutting in the butter until you have coarse crumbs ensures a tender shortbread texture. Mix in your beaten egg along with vanilla extract until just combined; it’s okay if it remains crumbly!

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

Reserve about 1 ½ to 2 cups of the dough mixture for topping later on. Press the remaining dough evenly into your prepared pan. This forms a solid base for your delicious filling! Spread that lovely cooled apricot mixture over your crust gently—it should cover most of it nicely while leaving a little border.

Step 4: Add Topping and Bake

Crumble your reserved shortbread dough evenly over the apricot filling. This creates a delightful topping that will get golden as it bakes! Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes until everything is golden brown around the edges.

Step 5: Cool Before Cutting

Once done baking, remove your pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack—this step is crucial! If you try cutting into them too soon, they’ll crumble apart. Allow them plenty of time—at least 2-3 hours at room temperature—for everything to set beautifully before slicing them into squares or bars.

Now that you’ve made these tasty Apricot Shortbread Bars, enjoy sharing them with family and friends—or keep them all for yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

Making the perfect apricot shortbread bars is all about attention to detail and a few handy tips. Here are some suggestions to elevate your baking game!

• Use Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold butter and eggs helps create that flaky texture in your shortbread. Warm ingredients can lead to a denser, less crumbly crust.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mixing just until combined ensures that your bars remain tender and crumbly. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in a tougher texture.

• Cool Completely Before Cutting: Allowing the bars to cool fully before slicing is essential for clean cuts and proper structure. This prevents the filling from oozing out when you cut them.

• Experiment with Flavor Additions: While almond extract is optional, feel free to add other flavors like orange zest or a hint of cinnamon for a unique twist that complements the apricots beautifully.

• Store Properly: Keep your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness. This will help them maintain their delightful texture.

How to Serve Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

These apricot shortbread bars are not just delicious; they’re also visually appealing! Present them beautifully, and you’ll have a show-stopping dessert perfect for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a lovely touch of sweetness and enhances presentation.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of mint alongside the bars provide a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
• Citrus Zest: Adding lemon or orange zest on top brings brightness and a fragrant aroma that pairs perfectly with the apricots.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream provides a wonderful contrast to the chewy apricot filling and crumbly shortbread crust.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream is light and fluffy, adding a tropical flair that complements the apricot flavor.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits can balance out the richness of the bars while adding freshness and color to your plate.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, makes for a soothing pairing that enhances the overall experience of enjoying these delightful treats.

With these serving ideas and pro tips under your belt, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your homemade apricot shortbread bars! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apricot Shortbread Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them fresh or save some for later! They store beautifully and can be made ahead of time, making them a delightful treat whenever you need a sweet snack.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week.
• Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag before freezing.
• They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy the bars warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the bars on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe:

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

While fresh apricots can be used, they have a higher water content, which may require adjustments in sugar and cooking time. Dried apricots provide a sweeter and more concentrated flavor that works perfectly in this recipe.

How do I make my Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to choose one that is designed as a 1:1 replacement to maintain texture.

Can I add nuts to the Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped almonds or walnuts can be mixed into the shortbread crust or sprinkled on top before baking for added crunch and flavor.

How long do Apricot Shortbread Bars last?

When stored properly, they can last at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Apricot Shortbread Bars as much as I do! They are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or just treating yourself, these bars are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!