French Apricot Cream Cheese Bars
Creamy apricot and cheesecake flavors blend in these easy-to-make bars with a buttery crust and fruity topping, perfect for dessert or a sweet snack. Suitable for gatherings and family treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the cake mix, melted margarine, and egg in a bowl and mix with a fork until crumbly.
- Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture.
- Press the remaining crumb mixture into a greased 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Bake for 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- Spread apricot jam evenly over the baked crust.
- In a small bowl, beat together cream cheese, sugar, vanilla, and egg until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the apricot jam layer.
- Sprinkle the reserved crumb mixture over the cream cheese layer.
- Bake for an additional 28 to 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
- Chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the margarine with unsalted butter. You can also use peach or raspberry jam instead of apricot for a different twist. Make sure to let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier mixing. If you prefer a firmer texture, chill the bars longer before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack. For a festive touch, serve them alongside Bee'S Bingo Cherry Salad at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Apricot Cream Cheese Bars contains roughly 247 calories, with 3g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 11g fat.
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 make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese alternative. For a lighter option, Greek yogurt can also work, but it may change the texture slightly. Ensure it’s well-drained for the best results.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on the edges, as they tend to cook faster than the center.
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).