Apricot Nut Bars
Sweet apricot nut bars feature a buttery texture with chunks of glazed apricots and crunchy nuts, perfect for a delightful snack or dessert, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix melted margarine, chopped nuts, glazed apricots, salt, and vanilla in a bowl.
- Add beaten eggs, sugar, and flour to the mixture and stir until well combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased 8 x 8-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting butter for margarine. If you can't find glazed apricots, dried apricots soaked in warm water for a few minutes work well. You can also mix different nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added texture. Make sure to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when the bars are ready.
Serving Suggestions
These apricot nut bars are perfect on their own, but you can enhance their flavor by serving them with a dollop of Low-Fat Whipped Topping or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. For a festive touch, consider drizzling them with Grandmother'S Butterscotch Sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the apricot nut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, which can help maintain their freshness. To reheat, simply warm individual pieces in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy them cold. They also freeze well for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Nut Bars contains roughly 401 calories, with 6g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 914mg per serving (40% 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 glazed apricots?
Yes, you can use fresh apricots, but you'll need to chop them and possibly add a bit of sugar to replicate the sweetness of glazed apricots. Fresh apricots have a different texture, so the bars may be slightly less chewy but still delicious.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The apricot nut bars are done when they turn golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose is suitable for baking to achieve the right texture. This way, you can enjoy these bars while accommodating gluten-free dietary needs.
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).