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Apricot Shortbread Bars

Irresistible Apricot Shortbread Bars to Brighten Your Day

Delight in these Apricot Shortbread Bars featuring a buttery crust and tangy apricot filling, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Shortbread Crust
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Use a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
  • 0.5 cups granulated sugar Adjust based on apricot sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Leavening agent for a lighter texture.
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt Enhances overall flavors.
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter Make sure it's cold for the best texture.
  • 1 large egg Acts as a binding agent.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances the flavor.
Apricot Filling
  • 2 cups dried apricots Can be swapped for peaches or figs.
  • 0.5 cups water To soften the dried apricots.
  • 0.25 cups additional granulated sugar Customize to taste.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Brightens the flavor.
  • 0.5 teaspoon almond extract Optional but recommended.

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Baking Pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Pastry Cutter

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped dried apricots, water, and granulated sugar. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender, then mix in lemon juice and almond extract. Cool completely.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing and flouring or lining with parchment.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In another bowl, beat egg with vanilla, then fold into the flour mixture until just combined.
  4. Reserve 1.5 to 2 cups of dough for topping. Press the remaining dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Spread apricot filling on top and crumble reserved dough over it.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into bars.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 27gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store bars in an airtight container; they maintain freshness at room temperature for up to a week or can be refrigerated for two weeks.

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