Cherry Or Apricot Bars
Chewy, fruit-filled bar cookies with a buttery oat crust and a sweet preserves layer, perfect for a quick snack or dessert that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour, baking powder, and salt together in a bowl.
- Add oats and brown sugar to the mixture.
- Cut in margarine until crumbly.
- Press two-thirds of the crumb mixture into a lightly greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Spread generously with cherry or apricot preserves.
- Cover with the remaining crumb mixture and press in place.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Cut into bars while still warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter or coconut oil can work as alternatives. To enhance flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. You can also mix in some chopped nuts or shredded coconut with the oats for added texture. Make sure to press the crumb mixture firmly for a better bar structure.
Serving Suggestions
These cherry or apricot bars are perfect as a midday snack or dessert. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful treat. You can also serve them alongside a cup of tea or coffee, making them an excellent addition to any brunch spread or picnic. For a festive touch, consider serving them with Minted Jello Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This will help restore their soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Or Apricot Bars contains roughly 1041 calories, with 6g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (24% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1565mg per serving (68% 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 fruit instead of preserves?
While fresh fruit can be delicious, preserves provide the necessary sweetness and moisture for these bars. If you prefer fresh fruit, consider making a quick compote to mimic the texture and flavor of preserves. Simply cook down fresh cherries or apricots with sugar until thickened.
What can I do if my bars crumble when cutting?
If your bars are crumbling, it might be due to not pressing the crumb mixture firmly enough before baking. Ensure to press down the mixture well in the pan and allow them to cool slightly before cutting. Using a sharp knife and wiping it clean between cuts can also help achieve cleaner edges.
Can I freeze these bars for later?
Yes, these bars freeze well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
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).