Apricot Almond Squares
Sweet apricot and almond squares feature a buttery crust topped with apricot preserves and a coconut crumble, perfect for dessert or teatime treats, appealing to fruit and nut lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and generously grease a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Combine the cake mix and 1/2 cup melted butter until crumbly, then stir in the finely chopped almonds.
- Reserve 1 cup of the mixture and press the remaining mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Carefully spread 1 cup of apricot preserves over the crust (heating preserves if necessary for easy spreading).
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, flour, salt, vanilla, and egg until well blended.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the apricot preserves.
- Combine the reserved crust mixture with shredded coconut and sprinkle evenly over the top of the filling.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until golden brown and the center is set.
- Cool completely before cutting and storing in the fridge.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, consider toasting the finely chopped almonds before adding them to the cake mix. If you prefer a sweeter touch, you can substitute the apricot preserves with peach or raspberry preserves. Additionally, using low-fat cream cheese can reduce calories without compromising taste. Make sure to mix the crust thoroughly so it holds together well when pressed into the pan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Apricot Almond Squares chilled or at room temperature, perfect for a delightful dessert after dinner or a sweet afternoon snack. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a fun twist, consider serving alongside Ruth'S Salad(Diabetic) for a balanced meal that complements the sweetness of the squares.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Apricot Almond Squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, simply place a square in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through. These bars also freeze well; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Almond Squares contains roughly 298 calories, with 5g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 732mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of cake mix, such as chocolate or lemon, to create unique variations of the Apricot Almond Squares. Just be sure the mix complements the flavors of apricot and almond.
Is it necessary to use cream cheese in the filling?
The cream cheese adds a rich and creamy texture to the filling, but you could substitute it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor and consistency.
How can I make these squares more visually appealing?
For a beautiful presentation, consider garnishing the squares with slivered almonds or a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. A drizzle of melted chocolate on top can also add an elegant touch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).