Apricot Date Bars
Sweet and tangy apricot and date bars feature a buttery oatmeal crumb topping, perfect for snacking, picnics, or dessert, with rich fruit flavors and chewy texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook dates, apricots, 1/3 cup brown sugar, and water until thickened.
- Set aside to cool slightly.
- Blend together melted shortening and 1 cup brown sugar.
- Sift and mix flour and soda.
- Mix in oatmeal and vanilla to the flour and soda mixture.
- Work these into the sugar mixture, then spread half of the oatmeal crumb mixture into an 8 x 8-inch pan.
- Add the fruit mixture on top.
- Top with the remaining crumb mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the oatmeal mixture. If you don't have shortening, you can use unsalted butter as a substitute. To reduce sugar, you can use less brown sugar or replace some with applesauce for a healthier twist. If you want to experiment, try adding nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These Apricot Date Bars are perfect as an afternoon snack or a quick breakfast on the go. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Serve alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for added flavor. For an extra touch, drizzle with honey or maple syrup before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Apricot Date 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, place a bar in the microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold for a refreshing snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Date Bars contains roughly 886 calories, with 10g protein, 124g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (91% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (55% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 dried apricots instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried apricots instead of fresh. Just make sure to soak them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes to soften them before cooking. This will help achieve the right consistency in the fruit mixture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Apricot Date Bars, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, ensure that your oatmeal is certified gluten-free. This will keep the bars delicious while accommodating gluten sensitivity.
Can I freeze these bars for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, or enjoy them directly from the freezer for a cool treat.
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).