Apricot Squares
Apricot Squares offer a delightful combination of sweet dried apricots, coconut, and nuts encased in a tender pastry. The slightly tangy apricot filling pairs beautifully with the sweet coconut topping, making it a perfect treat for brunch, tea time, or casual gatherings, appealing to fruit and nut lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the dried apricots.
- Combine the apricots with 3/4 cup sugar and water; cook about 5 minutes, stirring, until slightly thickened. Set aside.
- Prepare the crust by mixing 2 1/4 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda. Cut in 3/4 cup margarine until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking pan.
- Spread the cooked apricot mixture evenly over the crust.
- In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup chopped nuts and 1 1/2 cups flaked coconut. Sprinkle evenly over the apricot layer.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the apricot mixture. If you don't have dried apricots, you can substitute with dried peaches or figs. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your fruit; if using unsweetened coconut, you may want to increase the sugar slightly. Make sure to let the squares cool completely before cutting to prevent them from crumbling.
Serving Suggestions
These apricot squares are delicious on their own but can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. They also make a great addition to a dessert table alongside other American recipes like Peanut Butter Pinwheels or Sweet And Sour Kielbasa.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. If you prefer, you can freeze the squares; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Squares contains roughly 324 calories, with 2g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1106mg 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 apricots?
Fresh apricots are not ideal for this recipe as they have a high water content. However, if you want to use fresh apricots, you'll need to cook them down and reduce the amount of water in the recipe. Keep in mind that the texture and sweetness may differ from the original recipe.
What type of nuts work best in this recipe?
Chopped walnuts or pecans are great options for this recipe, as they add a nice crunch and flavor that complements the apricots. You can also omit the nuts for a nut-free version, or substitute with pumpkin seeds for a similar texture and added nutrition.
How do I know when my apricot squares are done baking?
The apricot squares are done when the top is golden brown and the edges start to pull away from the sides of the pan. Keep an eye on them after 12 minutes of baking, as oven temperatures can vary. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
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).