Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the buttery richness of shortbread with the sweet-tart flavor of apricots, then this Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe is just what you need! These bars have a special place in my heart because they are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a busy weeknight dessert or for a family gathering, these bars are sure to impress everyone.

The best part? You can enjoy them any time of year. The chewy apricot filling and crumbly shortbread crust create a wonderful texture that keeps you coming back for more. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has become a favorite in my home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Perfect for bakers of all skill levels!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves these sweet and tangy bars, making them an excellent choice for family gatherings or school events.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake them ahead of time and store them in the fridge. They get even better after sitting overnight!
• Delicious flavor: The combination of apricots and buttery shortbread creates a delightful taste that will satisfy your sweet cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe! You probably already have many of these in your pantry.

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 wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and additions. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

• Add nuts: Stir in some chopped walnuts or almonds into the apricot filling for added crunch.
• Mix in spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the depth of flavor in both the crust and filling.
• Try different fruits: Substitute dried apricots with other dried fruits like peaches or cherries if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Drizzle with chocolate: Melt some dairy-free chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled bars for an extra touch of 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 gentle simmer over medium heat while stirring occasionally. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover it up, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes until the apricots are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to keep everything from sticking. After removing it from heat, add fresh lemon juice, almond extract (if using), and a pinch of salt. Allow this lovely filling to cool down while we prepare our 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—this makes removing the bars so much easier later! In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Next, add those cold butter cubes into the flour mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry blender, cut in the butter until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces remaining. In another bowl, beat one egg with vanilla extract until combined. Add this egg mixture into your flour-butter mix and stir until it comes together but remains crumbly.

Step 3: Assemble Your Bars

Set aside about 1 1/2 to 2 cups of that crumbly dough for topping later on. Now press the rest evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan using your fingers or a measuring cup—this forms our sturdy base. Spread that cooled apricot filling evenly over this crust layer while leaving about a 1/4 inch border around the edges.

Step 4: Crumble & Bake

Crumble your reserved shortbread dough evenly over the apricot layer; this will create a lovely topping! Pop it into your preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges.

Step 5: Cool & Cut

Remove those delicious bars from the oven and place them on a wire rack to cool completely—this step is crucial! If you cut them too soon while warm, they may fall apart. Allow them to cool for at least 2-3 hours at room temperature—or speed things up by placing them in the fridge after an hour. Once cooled completely, lift them out using parchment paper if you used it and cut into squares or bars with a sharp knife.

And there you have it—a delightful batch of Apricot Shortbread Bars ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

Making these delightful Apricot Shortbread Bars is a joyful experience, and with a few pro tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use cold butter: Cold butter is key to achieving that flaky, tender texture in your shortbread. It prevents the dough from becoming too soft and ensures the bars hold their shape well.

• Don’t skip cooling: Allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting is essential. This helps the filling set properly, making it easier to achieve clean cuts and preventing the bars from crumbling apart.

• Taste your filling: Dried apricots can vary in sweetness. Taste your apricot filling before adding the final touch of sugar, so you can adjust it to your preferred sweetness level.

• Chill before cutting: If you’re having trouble cutting the bars neatly, pop them in the refrigerator for a short while after cooling. The chill will firm up the filling further, giving you cleaner edges when slicing.

• Experiment with flavors: While this recipe shines on its own, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist. You can also swap out the almond extract for other extracts like coconut or orange for a unique flavor profile!

How to Serve Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

These Apricot Shortbread Bars are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving! Here are some fun ideas to elevate your presentation and make them even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a beautiful contrast and sweetness that complements the tartness of the apricots.
• Fresh mint leaves: A small sprig of mint on top adds an elegant touch and a refreshing aroma that enhances the overall dessert experience.
• Zest of lemon: Sprinkle some fresh lemon zest over the top just before serving for an extra burst of citrus flavor that brightens up each bite.

Side Dishes

• Whipped coconut cream: This dairy-free alternative offers a light, airy accompaniment that pairs wonderfully with the rich shortbread and fruity filling.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a luscious contrast to the chewy apricots and buttery crust; serve it warm for an indulgent treat!
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a colorful side dish that complements the flavors in your bars while adding a healthy touch.
• Tea or coffee: Serve these bars alongside a cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack or dessert pairing that warms both body and soul.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Apricot Shortbread Bars will be sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every crumb!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apricot Shortbread Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store them properly, and enjoy them throughout the week or even longer.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator where they can last up to a week.
• Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag, labeling it with the date.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy your frozen bars, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
• If you prefer them warm, microwave on low power for about 10-15 seconds or until heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

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

Fresh apricots can be used, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking process. Cook them down with some sugar and water until they reach a jam-like consistency since they contain more moisture than dried apricots.

How do I make my Apricot Shortbread Bars more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of your Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the crust. You could also mix in some nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture and taste!

Can I substitute almond extract in the Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe?

Yes! If you’re looking for an alternative to almond extract, you can try using vanilla extract or leave it out entirely. The bars will still taste delicious!

How should I cut my Apricot Shortbread Bars for best results?

For clean cuts, chill your bars slightly before slicing. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to maintain nice edges.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Apricot Shortbread Bars! They’re not only delicious but also bring a touch of homemade warmth that everyone will appreciate. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your experience or any variations you tried; I’d love to hear from you. Happy baking!