Apricot Pinwheels
Apricot Pinwheels are delightful pastry treats filled with sweet dried apricots and a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for a brunch or afternoon snack, they combine fruity richness with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, appealing to both fruit lovers and those craving homemade baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine dried apricots and boiling water; allow to stand until most of the water is absorbed; drain.
- Sift flour and baking powder into a bowl.
- Beat butter or margarine, brown sugar, sugar substitute, and water until well blended.
- Add the flour mixture; blend with a fork until the dough forms a ball.
- Place the dough on wax paper; flatten slightly.
- Wrap in the wax paper; chill in the freezer for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine, and to enhance the sweetness, you can substitute honey for the sugar substitute. If you prefer a nut-free option, simply omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds. Make sure the dried apricots are finely chopped for even distribution throughout the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These apricot pinwheels make a delightful addition to a brunch spread or as an afternoon snack. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a comforting experience. They also pair beautifully with Low Calorie Chocolate Sauce for a decadent dessert twist. Consider serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To maintain freshness, refrigerate them if you plan to keep them longer. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their texture and warmth, making them taste freshly baked.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Pinwheels contains roughly 37 calories, with 0g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 2g 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 dried?
While fresh apricots can be used, the texture and moisture content will differ. Dried apricots provide a concentrated flavor that works better in this recipe. If using fresh, chop them finely and reduce the water accordingly to prevent the dough from becoming too wet.
How can I make these pinwheels gluten-free?
To make gluten-free apricot pinwheels, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the baking powder is also gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavor will still shine through. Adjust the water as needed for dough consistency.
Can I freeze the pinwheels before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pinwheels. After chilling the dough, slice them and arrange on a baking sheet. Flash freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for best results.
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).