Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings a taste of sunshine to your table, then this Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe is just what you need! These bars combine the sweet, tart flavor of apricots with a buttery shortbread crust that has everyone coming back for more. They are perfect for sharing at family gatherings, packing in lunchboxes, or simply enjoying on a cozy afternoon with a cup of tea. Trust me, once you try them, they will become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even beginner bakers can whip these up without any fuss.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet apricot filling and crumbly crust—perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings!
• Make ahead convenience: These bars keep well in the fridge, making them an ideal treat to prepare in advance for busy weeks.
• Versatile flavors: You can easily customize the recipe by adding spices or swapping out fruits based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Apricot Shortbread Bars use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to make this delicious treat!

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 experiment with different flavors and ingredients to suit your taste.

• Add some spice: Try adding ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the shortbread crust for a warm flavor twist.
• Mix in different fruits: Swap out dried apricots for other fruits like dried cherries or blueberries for a different fruity experience.
• Nuts galore: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts into the shortbread crust for added texture and flavor.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if you’re looking to cater to gluten sensitivities.

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 starts bubbling away, reduce the heat and cover it. This step is essential as it helps soften the apricots until they are tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stirring prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. After about 15-20 minutes, remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice and almond extract if you’re using it. Set aside this lovely filling while you prepare your crust.

Step 2: Make Your 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 your bars later so much easier! In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Next, add those cold butter cubes; cutting them into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs is crucial because those little pieces create that delightful flaky texture in your shortbread! Then lightly beat an egg with vanilla extract in a small bowl before adding it to your flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined—we want our dough crumbly yet holding together nicely.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

Now it’s time to put everything together! Reserve about 1 1/2 to 2 cups of that luscious shortbread dough for topping later. Press the remaining dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan—this creates our base crust. Spread that cooled apricot filling evenly over this layer while leaving a tiny border around the edges. That little bit of space is important; it allows the filling to bubble without spilling over.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden Brown

Crumble the reserved shortbread dough over the top of your apricot filling evenly. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown on top with slightly browned edges. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible!

Step 5: Cool Before Cutting

Once baked perfectly, remove your pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack—this step is crucial! Cutting too soon might result in messy bars that crumble apart. Letting them cool allows everything to set beautifully. It may take at least 2-3 hours at room temperature or speed things up by popping them into the fridge after an initial hour on the counter. Once completely cooled, lift them out using parchment paper if you used it and cut into squares or bars using a sharp knife.

Enjoy every bite of these scrumptious Apricot Shortbread Bars—they’re sure to become a cherished favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

Baking is all about love and a few handy tricks can make your Apricot Shortbread Bars even more delightful!

• Use cold butter: This helps create a flaky texture in your shortbread crust. Cold butter will not melt into the flour immediately, allowing for that delightful crumbly structure.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined ensures your shortbread bars remain tender. Overworking the dough can lead to a tough texture, which we definitely want to avoid!

• Cool completely before cutting: Allowing the bars to cool thoroughly ensures they hold their shape and makes slicing much easier. Cutting too soon may cause them to crumble apart.

• Adjust sweetness based on apricots: Dried fruit sweetness can vary; taste the filling before adding the full amount of sugar. It’s always best to tailor it to your palate!

• Add a pinch of cinnamon: A dash of ground cinnamon in your apricot filling adds warmth and depth. It complements the fruity flavor beautifully without overpowering it.

How to Serve Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

These Apricot Shortbread Bars are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, presentation matters.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
• Fresh mint leaves: Placing a few fresh mint leaves next to your bars not only enhances the presentation but also adds a refreshing aroma.
• Lemon zest: Grating some lemon zest over the top gives a pop of color and an additional citrusy brightness that complements the apricots nicely.

Side Dishes

• Herbal tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea pairs beautifully with these sweet bars, balancing their richness with soothing flavors.
• Fruit salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and pairs well with the flavors in the bars. Opt for seasonal fruits like berries or citrus for an extra zing!
• Yogurt parfait: Serve these bars alongside a simple yogurt parfait made with layers of yogurt, granola, and fresh fruits for added texture and creaminess.
• Cheese platter: A selection of soft cheeses compliments the sweetness of apricots wonderfully. Consider pairing with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a delightful contrast.

Now, you’re all set to whip up these scrumptious Apricot Shortbread Bars! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apricot Shortbread Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy their delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If you live in a particularly warm area, consider refrigerating them to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label them with the date!

Reheating

• If you prefer your shortbread bars warm, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

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

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

While fresh apricots can be used, it’s best to stick with dried apricots as they provide a more concentrated sweetness and texture that works well in these bars.

How long do Apricot Shortbread Bars last?

If stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, these bars will last for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them as mentioned above!

Can I customize the filling in this Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other dried fruits like raisins or cranberries, or even add nuts for extra crunch.

What should I do if my dough is too crumbly when making the Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe?

If your dough seems too crumbly, try adding a teaspoon of cold water or more beaten egg to help it come together without overmixing.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Apricot Shortbread Bars! They’re not only delicious but also an excellent treat to share with friends and family. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or as a sweet snack later on, they’re bound to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!