Apricot Sticks
Sweet and chewy apricot sticks combine dried apricots, orange, sugar, and nuts for a delightful treat perfect for snacking or gifting, with vibrant citrus and nutty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Force dried apricots and seeded, medium, whole orange through a food chopper using a medium blade.
- Pass the mixture through the chopper a second time.
- Put the mixture into the top of a double boiler and stir in sugar.
- Cook over boiling water, covered, for 30 minutes or until quite stiff.
- Cool the mixture and stir in chopped nuts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a unique twist, consider adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness or using different nuts like pistachios for a flavor variation. If you prefer a sweeter treat, you can increase the sugar slightly. Ensure the dried apricots are soft and pliable; if they're too dry, soak them in warm water for a few minutes before chopping.
Serving Suggestions
These apricot sticks make a delightful snack on their own but can also be served alongside cheese and crackers for a savory contrast. They pair beautifully with Kahlua Liquor if you're looking for a sophisticated touch. Consider serving them as a sweet component in a dessert platter or alongside a cup of herbal tea.
Storage & Reheating
Store the apricot sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them in a sealed container, where they can last for up to two weeks. To enjoy them again, you can remove them from the fridge and let them come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Sticks contains roughly 177 calories, with 2g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% 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 ones?
Fresh apricots won't yield the same texture or sweetness as dried apricots in this recipe. If you want to experiment with fresh fruit, you may need to adjust the sugar and cooking time significantly, as fresh apricots have a higher water content.
How can I make this recipe nut-free?
To make apricot sticks nut-free, simply omit the chopped nuts from the recipe. You can substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch and nutrition, or use additional dried fruit for texture without the allergens.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. The combination of dried apricots, orange, sugar, and nuts makes for a delicious treat that fits well within vegan recipes.
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).