Apricot Filled Bars
Apricot filled bars combine sweet dried apricots and pineapple with a buttery crust, offering a delightful treat perfect for snacks or dessert gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place apricots and undrained pineapple in a saucepan.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Mix in 1/2 cup sugar and simmer for 5 minutes longer; cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla or almond extract to the apricot filling. If you don't have dried apricots, peaches or figs can be good substitutes. When mixing the dough, avoid overworking it to maintain a tender texture. You can also try using whole wheat flour for a healthier twist, fitting well with many vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these apricot filled bars warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them perfect for an afternoon snack. For a festive touch, you could also serve them alongside the Strawberry-Pineapple Jello Mold for a colorful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover apricot filled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them where they can last for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a microwave for a few seconds or warm them in an oven at 350°F until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Filled Bars contains roughly 259 calories, with 4g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1001mg per serving (44% 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 fresh apricots instead of dried?
Fresh apricots can be used, but you'll need to cook them down longer to achieve a similar consistency and sweetness as dried apricots. You may also need to adjust the sugar content since fresh fruit has more moisture.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-baking.
Can I freeze the apricot filled bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
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).