Apricot Shortbread Bars

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings smiles to everyone around the table, then you need to try these Apricot Shortbread Bars! They have a tender, buttery crust that perfectly complements the sweet and tangy apricot jam. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made these for family gatherings or just busy weeknights when I need a little something special. The smell of them baking fills the kitchen with warmth, making it feel like home.

What I love most about these bars is their simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself. They are great for parties, picnics, or even as an afternoon snack with your favorite cup of tea. Trust me; once you take a bite, you’ll understand why they quickly become a cherished favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have these bars ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the delicious combination of buttery shortbread and sweet apricot jam!
• Make-ahead treat: These bars store well, so feel free to bake them in advance for your next event.
• Versatile flavor: The apricot jam gives them a unique twist that sets them apart from other desserts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these tasty Apricot Shortbread Bars, you don’t need much—just some wholesome ingredients you probably already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shortbread

• 1 1/2 cups butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 3/4 cup granulated white sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

For the Filling

• 1 1/2 cups apricot jam

For Topping

• Powdered sugar, for sprinkling

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Change the fruit: Swap out apricot jam for raspberry or peach jam if you’re in the mood for something different.
• Nutty addition: Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to the crumbled topping for some extra crunch.
• Zesty twist: Mix in some lemon zest into the shortbread dough for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle melted dairy-free chocolate over the cooled bars for an indulgent touch.

How to Make Apricot Shortbread Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

First things first—preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. Spray a 9×13 inch pan with nonstick spray. In a large bowl, combine the butter and sugars using an electric mixer until creamy. This step is crucial because it helps incorporate air into the mixture, giving your crust that lovely texture. Now add in the vanilla and salt, mixing until everything is well combined.

Step 2: Form the Dough

Next, gradually beat in the flour on low speed until you have a smooth dough. Divide this dough in half; wrap one half in plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge for about 30 minutes. Press the other half firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to create your crust—this will be what holds all that delicious apricot jam.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Bake this crust in your preheated oven until it just begins to turn light brown around the edges—about 20 minutes should do it! It’s important not to overbake at this stage so that your bars remain soft and chewy later on.

Step 4: Add Filling and Topping

While waiting for your crust to cool slightly, stir your apricot jam in a bowl until smooth. Spread it evenly over that beautiful crust you’ve baked. Now it’s time to crumble up that refrigerated dough over the top—this forms a lovely topping that will get crispy as it bakes!

Step 5: Final Bake

Return this masterpiece back to the oven and bake until the topping is golden and firm—around 30 more minutes should work perfectly! Once done, let it cool completely on a wire rack before sprinkling lightly with powdered sugar and cutting into bars. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apricot Shortbread Bars

Creating the perfect Apricot Shortbread Bars is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to help you achieve a delicious result every time.

• Use room temperature butter: This ensures that the butter blends smoothly with the sugars, resulting in a creamier and more uniform dough.

• Chill the dough: Refrigerating half of the dough before crumbling it over the jam helps maintain its structure and creates a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling.

• Spread the jam evenly: Taking the time to ensure an even layer of apricot jam guarantees that every bite is bursting with flavor, adding to the overall enjoyment of the bars.

• Check for doneness: Keep an eye on your topping while baking; it should be golden and firm. This ensures you don’t end up with undercooked or overcooked bars.

• Let them cool completely: Allowing your bars to cool fully before slicing helps them hold their shape better, making for cleaner cuts and a more appealing presentation.

How to Serve Apricot Shortbread Bars

Serving your Apricot Shortbread Bars can be as delightful as making them! Consider these ideas to elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a classic touch and elevates the visual appeal without overpowering the flavors.
• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint not only add a pop of color but also offer a refreshing contrast to the sweet apricot flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream complements the fruity tartness of apricot perfectly, creating a delightful combination.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream adds a rich, creamy element that enhances these bars beautifully.
• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits can provide a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the shortbread bars, making for a well-rounded dessert spread.
• Herbal tea: Pairing these bars with a soothing herbal tea offers a delightful way to enjoy their sweetness while providing a comforting beverage choice.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Apricot Shortbread Bars will not only taste amazing but will also impress anyone who gets to enjoy them!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apricot Shortbread Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, and they store beautifully, making them a great treat to have on hand for gatherings or snack cravings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before storing.
• Place the bars in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into individual pieces before freezing.
• Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight.
• If you prefer warm bars, pop them in a preheated oven at 300 degrees F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful Apricot Shortbread Bars!

Can I use other types of jam for Apricot Shortbread Bars?

Absolutely! While apricot jam is delicious, feel free to experiment with other flavors like peach, raspberry, or even mixed berry jam for a fun twist.

How do I make gluten-free Apricot Shortbread Bars?

To make gluten-free version of Apricot Shortbread Bars, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What should I serve with my Apricot Shortbread Bars?

These bars pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee! You can also serve them with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped coconut cream for extra indulgence.

Can I add nuts to my Apricot Shortbread Bars?

Yes! Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts can add a lovely crunch. Just sprinkle them over the jam layer before adding the crumbled topping.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these scrumptious Apricot Shortbread Bars! They are not only easy to prepare but also fill your home with delightful aromas. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as an afternoon snack, I’m sure they will bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and enjoy every bite!