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Apricot Shortbread Bars: A Buttery Delight for Your Sweet Tooth

Enjoy the irresistible Apricot Shortbread Bars, combining buttery richness with sweet-tart dried apricots for a delightful dessert.
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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 Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Shortbread Base
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free
  • 0.75 cups Granulated Sugar use granulated sugar for the right texture
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder no substitutions needed
  • 0.25 teaspoon Salt use sea salt for better taste
  • 0.5 cups Unsalted Butter substitute with cold coconut oil for dairy-free
  • 1 large Egg can swap for a flax egg for a vegan option
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract using fresh vanilla is best
For the Apricot Filling
  • 2 cups Dried Apricots alternatives include peaches or cherries
  • 0.5 cups Granulated Sugar adjust based on sweetness of fruit
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice fresh is best, no substitutes
  • Almond Extract optional, can be omitted
  • 1 pinch Salt no substitutions needed

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Saucepan
  • mixing bowl
  • Pastry cutter
  • Wire Rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Chop the dried apricots and place them in a saucepan with a splash of water and some granulated sugar. Simmer over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes until tender.
  2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease or line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Mix in the egg and vanilla until just combined.
  4. Reserve 1.5 to 2 cups of shortbread dough. Press the remaining dough into the bottom of the pan. Spread the cooled apricot filling on top and crumble the reserved dough over it.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the topping is golden brown and edges are bubbling.
  6. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before using the parchment to lift them out and cut into squares.

Notes

These bars can be customized with your favorite dried fruits and are perfect for various occasions.