Shari'S Apricot Squares
Apricot squares are sweet, chewy treats with coconut and apricot preserves, perfect for dessert or teatime. They suit those who enjoy fruity, coconut-infused baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together sugar, shortening, egg, and vanilla.
- Add flour, salt, and coconut; combine.
- Spread three-fourths of the mixture on a greased cookie sheet.
- Spread apricot preserves over the layer.
- Crumble the remaining mixture on top.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening, which can enhance the flavor. If you don't have apricot preserves, any fruit jam or preserves will work well as a substitute. For a twist, try adding nuts or chocolate chips to the mixture. These variations can make it a delightful treat, similar to those found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These apricot squares are perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet treat after a meal. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a delightful dessert, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. They also make a great addition to any dessert platter, alongside other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, warm in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shari'S Apricot Squares contains roughly 329 calories, with 6g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of iron (14% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% 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 preserves?
While fresh apricots can add a lovely flavor, they won't provide the same sweetness and spreadability as preserves. If you prefer using fresh, consider cooking them down with sugar to create a jam-like consistency before adding them to the squares.
How can I make these squares more chewy?
To achieve a chewier texture, try adding an extra egg yolk or using brown sugar instead of white sugar. This will enhance the moisture content and give you that desired chewy bite. Additionally, baking for a shorter time can also help maintain chewiness.
What can I serve with apricot squares?
These apricot squares are versatile and can be served with a variety of accompaniments. They pair well with fresh fruit, like berries or sliced peaches, and a dollop of whipped cream. For a fun twist, serve with a scoop of ice cream to create a delicious dessert experience.
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).