Apricot Streusel Bars
Sweet apricot preserves layered with crunchy oatmeal streusel create a delightful bar, perfect for snacking or dessert, appealing to those who love fruity and nutty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, brown sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Cut in 3/4 cup oleo using a pastry blender until the mixture is crumbly.
- Stir in rolled oats and blend thoroughly.
- Set aside 1 1/2 cups of this mixture for topping.
- Press the remaining mixture into the bottom of a prepared baking pan.
- Spread apricot preserves evenly over the crust.
- Sprinkle the set-aside streusel mixture over the preserves.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and drizzle over the top.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts evenly over the entire surface.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of oleo. You can also substitute part of the flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. If you prefer, any fruit preserves can be used in place of apricot, such as raspberry or peach. Ensure the mixture is well-blended for the perfect crumbly topping, similar to what you'd find in Kelli'S Rich, Chewy Brownies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious bars as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with Mel'S Impossible Quiche for a brunch spread. For a festive touch, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side or a drizzle of cream over the top for serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover apricot streusel bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apricot Streusel Bars contains roughly 1178 calories, with 19g protein, 226g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (173% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (104% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2061mg per serving (90% 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 apricot preserves?
While fresh apricots can be used, they will require additional sugar and cooking down to create a spreadable consistency. For best results, stick with apricot preserves, as they provide the perfect sweetness and texture for the bars.
What can I substitute for nuts if I have allergies?
If you have nut allergies, you can safely omit the nuts altogether or substitute with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Another option is to use toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor without the risk of nuts.
How can I make these bars vegan?
To make apricot streusel bars vegan, substitute oleo with vegan butter and replace the butter in the topping with more vegan butter or coconut oil. Ensure your apricot preserves are vegan-friendly, and you’ll have a delicious dessert that everyone can enjoy.
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).