Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe is a delightful treat that brings together the rich, buttery flavor of shortbread with the sweet-tart taste of apricots. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply enjoying at home, these bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. With their crumbly texture and fruity filling, they stand out as a delicious dessert that everyone will love.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe
• Step 1: Prepare the Apricot Filling
• Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
• Step 3: Make the Shortbread Crust
• Step 4: Assemble the Bars
• Step 5: Bake & Cool
• How to Serve Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe
• With Whipped Cream
• À la Mode
• Fresh Berries
• Coffee or Tea
• Drizzle with Honey
• Garnish with Mint
• How to Perfect Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe
• Reheating Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What can I substitute for dried apricots in the Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe?
• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
• How do I know when my Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe is done baking?
• Can I add nuts to my Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: The recipe requires simple steps, making it great for bakers of all levels.
• Irresistible flavor: The combination of buttery shortbread and sweet apricot filling creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile dessert: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering, picnic, or afternoon tea.
• Customizable sweetness: Adjust the sugar in the filling based on the natural sweetness of your apricots.
• Make ahead option: These bars can be made in advance and stored for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Apricot Shortbread Bars, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Pastry blender or food processor
• Medium saucepan
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking pan: A 9×13 inch pan is perfect for even cooking and easy bar cutting.
• Pastry blender: This tool helps achieve the right texture for the shortbread crust by combining butter with flour evenly.
• Wire rack: Cooling the bars on a wire rack prevents sogginess and ensures a firm texture.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 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
– 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

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 simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover it up, and cook for about 15-20 minutes until the apricots are very tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. After removing from heat, stir in fresh lemon juice and almond extract if using. Allow the filling to cool slightly before setting aside.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This preparation helps in easy removal later.

Step 3: Make the Shortbread Crust

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add cold cubed butter to this mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces remaining. In a separate small bowl, beat the egg with vanilla extract lightly. Add this egg mixture to the flour and butter crumbs; mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Reserve about 1 1/2 to 2 cups of dough for topping. Press remaining dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan using fingers or measuring cup bottom. Spread cooled apricot filling evenly over this crust.

Step 5: Bake & Cool

Crumble reserved shortbread dough over the apricot filling evenly. Bake in preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes until golden brown on top and edges are lightly browned. Remove from oven and place on wire rack to cool completely before cutting into squares or bars.

Enjoy these delightful Apricot Shortbread Bars as a wonderful dessert option!

How to Serve Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

Serving your Apricot Shortbread Bars can elevate the overall experience, making them even more delightful. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy these sweet treats.

With Whipped Cream

• Light and Fluffy: Top your bars with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a rich contrast to the crumbly texture.

À la Mode

• Ice Cream Pairing: Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious hot-and-cold combination.

Fresh Berries

• Berry Burst: Add a handful of fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, on the side for a fruity freshness that complements the apricot flavor.

Coffee or Tea

• Warm Beverage: Pair your bars with a cup of coffee or herbal tea to enhance the flavors and create a perfect afternoon snack.

Drizzle with Honey

• Sweet Touch: A light drizzle of honey can add an extra layer of sweetness and flavor, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Garnish with Mint

• Fresh Herb Finish: A few mint leaves on top not only add color but also provide a refreshing taste that balances the sweetness.

How to Perfect Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

Perfecting your Apricot Shortbread Bars takes just a few extra steps during preparation. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Chill the Butter: Start with cold butter for a flakier texture in your shortbread crust.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough bars instead of tender ones.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality dried apricots and real vanilla extract for better flavor.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully before cutting ensures clean edges and prevents crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

Pairing your Apricot Shortbread Bars with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese pairs wonderfully with sweet desserts.
2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and acidity, balancing the sweetness of the bars.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a healthy side that contrasts nicely with the rich shortbread.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding offers a nutritious option that is both tasty and visually appealing alongside your bars.
5. Nuts and Dried Fruits Mix: A crunchy mix provides texture and complements the soft filling of the shortbread bars.
6. Chocolate Sauce: For those who love chocolate, serving warm chocolate sauce will take your dessert to another level of indulgence.
7. Coconut Whipped Cream: This dairy-free alternative is light yet flavorful, adding an exotic twist to your serving suggestion.
8. Tea Cookies: Light tea cookies can provide additional textures and flavors, making it an elegant addition to any gathering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of.

• Using warm butter – Always use cold butter for the crust. This helps create a flaky texture that’s essential for shortbread.
• Skipping the cooling time – Allowing the bars to cool completely is crucial. If you cut them too soon, they will crumble and fall apart.
• Overmixing the dough – Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough shortbread instead of a tender, crumbly bar.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Baking is a science! Use proper measuring tools for flour and sugar to ensure your bars turn out perfectly every time.
• Ignoring storage tips – Proper storage keeps your bars fresh longer. Follow the recommended methods for best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• item The bars will last about 5-7 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

• item Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap for freezing.
• item Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
• item They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat one bar at a time on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I substitute for dried apricots in the Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe?

You can use any dried fruit like peaches, cherries, or figs. Just ensure they are similar in size when chopped.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

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

Look for a golden brown topping and slightly bubbling filling around the edges as indicators that they are ready.

Can I add nuts to my Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped almonds or walnuts can add great flavor and texture. Just mix them into the crust or sprinkle on top of the filling.

Final Thoughts

The Apricot Shortbread Bars Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different dried fruits or nuts according to your taste preferences. Try this delightful treat today and enjoy its sweet and buttery goodness!