Apricot Snack Bars
Sweet and chewy apricot snack bars combine dried apricots, raisins, nuts, and warm spices for a delightful treat perfect for snacking or lunchboxes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter, brown sugar, and egg until light and fluffy.
- Add flour, salt, and baking soda; mix well.
- Stir in oatmeal, chopped dried apricots, raisins, and nuts until combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan and spread evenly.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, consider using quick oats instead of rolled oats. You can also substitute the dried apricots with other dried fruits like cranberries or figs for a different flavor profile. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, try using applesauce in place of some of the butter. This recipe is flexible and is perfect for experimenting with different nuts and fruits.
Serving Suggestions
These apricot snack bars are perfect for a quick breakfast on the go or as an afternoon treat with tea. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or a refreshing herbal tea. For a delightful dessert, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a slice of Mother'S Lemon Snow Cake for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store the apricot snack bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm, or eat them cold for a refreshing snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Snack Bars contains roughly 377 calories, with 5g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (32% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1096mg per serving (48% 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 have a higher moisture content than dried ones, which may affect the texture of the bars. If you want to use fresh apricots, reduce the other liquid ingredients slightly and chop them finely. However, the traditional recipe calls for dried apricots for optimal results.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make these apricot snack bars gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that your oats are certified gluten-free, as some brands may process oats in facilities that handle wheat.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they turn a golden brown color and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
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).