Apricot Oatmeal Bars

These Apricot Oatmeal Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack during the day or a tasty dessert after dinner, these bars deliver on both flavor and texture. Made with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats and apricot preserves, they are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Plus, they’re suitable for sharing at gatherings or enjoying on your own!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these bars in no time.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of butter, brown sugar, and apricot preserves creates a wonderfully sweet and tangy taste.
• Versatile Snack: Great for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon pick-me-up, these bars fit any occasion.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Rolled oats offer health benefits, making these bars a more wholesome choice compared to other sweets.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or different fruit preserves to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your apricot oatmeal bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Fork or pastry cutter
• 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish
• Non-stick cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl ensures you can easily combine ingredients without spills.
• Fork or pastry cutter: These tools help mix the butter into the dry ingredients efficiently, creating the right crumbly texture.
• Baking dish: A non-stick baking dish prevents sticking and makes cutting the bars easier after baking.

Ingredients

These apricot oat cVanilla Extract (Alcohol-Free)ble bars are a delicious sweet treat!

Main Ingredients

• 1/2 C butter (softened to room temperature)
• 1/2 C packed brown sugar
• 1/4 tsp. baking soda
• 1 1/4 C rolled oats
• 3/4 C flour
• 1 C apricot preserves

How to Make Apricot Oatmeal Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats up, spray your 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, baking soda, rolled oats, and flour using either a fork or a pastry cutter. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Base

Measure out 2 cups of the oat mixture. Gently press this mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to form an even layer.

Step 4: Add Apricot Preserves

Carefully spread the apricot preserves over the crust you’ve just created. Leave about 1/4 inch from the edge to prevent overflow during baking.

Step 5: Top with Remaining Mixture

Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture evenly over the top of the apricot preserves. This will create a lovely crumbly topping once baked.

Step 6: Bake

Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they bake.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars. Enjoy these delightful treats as part of your sweet repertoire!

How to Serve Apricot Oatmeal Bars

These Apricot Oatmeal Bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether as a sweet snack, breakfast treat, or dessert, they can complement various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Fruits

• Sliced Bananas – Add fresh banana slices on top for a creamy texture that pairs well with the apricot flavor.
• Berries Medley – Serve alongside a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing burst of color and taste.

With Yogurt

• Greek Yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein. Try drizzling honey on top for extra sweetness.
• Plant-Based Yogurt – For a dairy-free option, serve with almond or coconut yogurt for a lovely balance with the bars.

As a Breakfast Treat

• With Nut Butter – Spread almond or peanut butter on top to add protein and healthy fats, making it an energizing breakfast.
• Drizzled with Honey – A light drizzle of honey enhances the natural sweetness of the bars while adding flavor complexity.

For Dessert

• With Ice Cream – Warm bars served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream create an indulgent dessert perfect for any occasion.
• Sprinkled with Nuts – Top the bars with crushed nuts for added crunch and nutrition, enhancing both texture and flavor.

How to Perfect Apricot Oatmeal Bars

To ensure your Apricot Oatmeal Bars turn out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

• Use Room Temperature Butter – Softened butter incorporates better, resulting in a smoother mixture and chewier texture.
• Measure Ingredients Carefully – Accurate measurements will keep the balance right between sweetness and texture.
• Press Firmly – When pressing the oat mixture into the baking dish, apply even pressure to avoid crumbly bars.
• Bake Until Golden Brown – Keep an eye on your bars; they should be golden brown around the edges but soft in the center when done.
• Cool Before Cutting – Letting them cool completely helps maintain their shape when you cut them into bars.
• Store Properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness; these bars freeze well for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Apricot Oatmeal Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Apricot Oatmeal Bars can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A colorful salad of seasonal fruits complements the sweetness of the bars beautifully.
2. Smoothie Bowl – A thick berry smoothie topped with granola offers a nutritious side that balances flavors well.
3. Chia Seed Pudding – Creamy chia pudding provides a delightful contrast in texture while being healthful and filling.
4. Granola Parfait – Layer yogurt and granola in glasses for an appealing presentation that goes well with oatmeal bars.
5. Herbal Tea – A cup of chamomile or mint tea provides warmth and relaxation, enhancing your snack experience.
6. Nut Mix – A small bowl of mixed nuts offers crunch and healthy fats that pair nicely without overpowering the flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apricot Oatmeal Bars, it’s crucial to avoid common pitfalls for the best results.

• Boldly skip the butter softening: Using cold butter can lead to a dense texture. Always ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for a light and fluffy consistency.
• Boldly overlook measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are key. Always use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the right proportions for optimal taste and texture.
• Boldly rush the mixing process: Overmixing can make the bars tough. Mix just until combined for tender results.
• Boldly ignore baking time: Each oven is different. Keep an eye on your bars as they bake, and check for a golden color on top to determine doneness.
• Boldly skip cooling before cutting: Cutting too soon can cause the bars to crumble. Allow them to cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Apricot Oatmeal Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apricot Oatmeal Bars

• Boldly using the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 10 minutes.
• Boldly using the Microwave: Heat one bar at a time for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Boldly using the Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Apricot Oatmeal Bars.

How do I make Apricot Oatmeal Bars gluten-free?

You can substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour in this recipe.

Can I use other fruits instead of apricots?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fruit preserves like peach or raspberry for variety.

What is the best way to serve Apricot Oatmeal Bars?

These bars are perfect as a quick snack or breakfast treat. Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee!

How long do Apricot Oatmeal Bars last?

When stored properly, these bars will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Final Thoughts

Apricot Oatmeal Bars are not only delicious but also versatile! They can be customized with different fruits or nuts based on your preference. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful treat that’s perfect any time of day!

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Apricot Oatmeal Bars

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful taste of Apricot Oatmeal Bars, a perfect blend of sweetness and wholesome goodness. These bars are ideal for a quick snack, energizing breakfast, or satisfying dessert. Made with rolled oats and apricot preserves, they offer a chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the fruity flavor. The recipe is straightforward, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time, making them great for sharing at gatherings or enjoying solo. Customize them with your favorite nuts or other fruit preserves to create your unique treat. Get ready to enjoy these deliciously simple bars that will soon become a favorite in your kitchen!

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Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup softened butter
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/4 cups rolled oats
• 3/4 cup flour
• 1 cup apricot preserves

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, baking soda, rolled oats, and flour until well mixed.
3. Press half of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
4. Spread apricot preserves evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the top of the preserves.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown on top.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar (50g)
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 20mg