Apricot Crumb Bars
Sweet and tart apricot crumb bars feature a buttery crumb topping, spiced with cinnamon, and are filled with luscious apricot filling—perfect for a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cake mix, graham cracker crumbs, cinnamon, and softened butter until crumbly. Reserve 1 cup for topping.
- Add egg to the remaining mixture and mix until well blended.
- Press the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Spread apricot filling evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture and chopped nuts over the filling.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, until lightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more complex flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough. If you don't have graham cracker crumbs, crushed digestive biscuits work well as a substitute. To make these bars gluten-free, use a gluten-free cake mix. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the brown sugar to 2 tablespoons.
Serving Suggestions
These apricot crumb bars are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair well with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack. For a special touch, serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover apricot crumb bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Crumb Bars contains roughly 221 calories, with 2g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 11g fat.
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 fresh apricots instead of canned filling?
Yes, fresh apricots can be used! You'll need to cook them down with some sugar and a bit of water until soft and syrupy. This will create a delightful homemade filling that enhances the flavor of the bars.
How do I know when the crumb bars are done baking?
The crumb bars are done when they turn a light golden brown on top. Keep an eye on them after the 12-minute mark, as baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I freeze these apricot crumb bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the bars to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.
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).