If you’re on the hunt for a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug, you’re going to absolutely love this Apricot Bars with Walnuts and Coconut Recipe. These bars are a delightful mix of tender crumbly crust, luscious apricot filling, crunchy walnuts, and chewy coconut all dusted with a light coating of powdered sugar. They are the perfect balance of fruity sweetness and nutty texture, making them an irresistible snack or dessert to share with family and friends. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a joyful way to bring a little sunshine into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Apricot Bars with Walnuts and Coconut Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to create incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays an essential role, from the buttery crust to the chewy dried apricots and crunchy walnuts, making the process as satisfying as the result.
- Butter (½ cup, softened): Provides rich flavor and a tender, crumbly base for the crust.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the buttery crust.
- All-purpose flour (1â…“ cups, divided): Gives structure to both the crust and the filling layers.
- Dried apricots (â…” cup): Offers natural fruity sweetness and chewy texture when softened.
- Eggs (2 large): Bind the filling ingredients together and create a smooth, luscious texture.
- Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Adds deep caramel notes and moisture to the filling.
- Baking powder (½ teaspoon): Helps lighten the filling for a perfect puffed top.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- Pure vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the filling’s flavor profile.
- Chopped walnuts (½ cup): Bring delightful crunch and a nutty richness that complements the apricots.
- Sweetened flaked coconut (½ cup): Adds chewy texture and a subtle tropical note.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): Used for an elegant dusting that adds a touch of sweetness and beautiful presentation.
How to Make Apricot Bars with Walnuts and Coconut Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Apricots
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing or lining an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Then, soften the dried apricots by boiling them in water for about 10 minutes until tender, making sure to drain and chop them finely after cooling. This step transforms the apricots into a juicy and soft filling that will shine through in every bite.
Step 2: Make and Bake the Crust
In a bowl, blend the softened butter, granulated sugar, and 1 cup of flour until coarse crumbs appear. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish and bake it for 15 to 18 minutes. You want a crust that’s lightly golden, giving it just the right hint of crunch while staying buttery and tender underneath all that wonderful filling.
Step 3: Mix the Filling Base
While your crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until silky smooth. This sweet mixture will be the foundation that holds all the other fabulous ingredients together in the filling, giving the bars their characteristic richness.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Integrate
In a small bowl, mix the remaining flour, baking powder, and salt. Gently fold these dry ingredients into your egg mixture, just enough to combine. This keeps the filling light, ensuring it puffs just slightly during baking for a perfect texture balance.
Step 5: Fold in Apricots, Walnuts, and Coconut
Now for the magic moment: stir in the chopped apricots, crunchy walnuts, and flaked coconut into the filling. Mixing these in gently ensures each bar will be bursting with chewy, nutty deliciousness. Immediately spread this mixture over your hot crust to allow the contrasting textures to meld beautifully while baking.
Step 6: Bake the Bars
Return the pan to the oven and cook for about 30 minutes until the top is golden and puffed, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This baking process locks in the flavors while developing a lovely golden crust on top that contrasts the tender, flavorful filling beneath.
Step 7: Cool and Finish with Powdered Sugar
Once baked, let the bars cool completely. This resting time allows the layers to set perfectly. When ready, cut into squares and gently roll or sprinkle them with powdered sugar for a touch of elegance and an added note of sweetness that’s just irresistible.
How to Serve Apricot Bars with Walnuts and Coconut Recipe
Garnishes
These bars look stunning with a simple dusting of powdered sugar, but feel free to get creative! A few extra toasted coconut flakes or a sprinkle of chopped walnuts on top can add some extra texture and visual appeal if you’re serving them for a special occasion. A light drizzle of honey or apricot glaze also complements the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Apricot Bars with Walnuts and Coconut Recipe pairs wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. For a daytime treat, try serving them alongside a cup of freshly brewed tea or coffee to create a cozy and satisfying snack experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Present these bars on a rustic wooden board or a pretty dessert platter for a homey, inviting look. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for serving at parties or wrap individually for grab-and-go gifts and treats. They also look charming stacked with small edible flowers or fresh apricot slices as an elegant garnish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover bars can be safely stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, place them in the refrigerator where they will last for about a week. Make sure they’re completely cooled before storing to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
You can freeze Apricot Bars with Walnuts and Coconut Recipe for up to 3 months. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Reheating
For that freshly-baked feel, warm your bars in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the coconut and nuts less crisp and the crust a bit mushy.
FAQs
Can I substitute fresh apricots for dried in this recipe?
Fresh apricots are much softer and contain more moisture, so they might make the filling too wet. If you want to try fresh apricots, reduce other liquids and chop them finely. Dried apricots softened by simmering are ideal for that chewy texture and concentrated flavor.
Do I need to toast the walnuts or coconut first?
Toasting walnuts and coconut enhances their flavor and crunch, but it’s not absolutely necessary. If you have time, quickly toasting them in a dry skillet until golden brings out richer nutty notes that elevate the bars deliciously.
Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
Yes! Light brown sugar will work just fine and will give a slightly milder molasses flavor. Dark brown sugar adds a more robust depth but either choice makes a tasty filling in this Apricot Bars with Walnuts and Coconut Recipe.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
You’ll want the top to be puffed and golden brown with a toothpick inserted in the center coming out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. If it’s still wet or batter-like, they need more time in the oven.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Apricot Bars with Walnuts and Coconut Recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. The texture might vary slightly but the bars will still be delicious and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the combination of apricots, walnuts, and coconut in these bars that makes baking them an absolute joy. This Apricot Bars with Walnuts and Coconut Recipe is wonderful for sharing sweet moments or treating yourself to a homemade delight. Give it a try, and I promise these bars will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes to bake again and again.
Print
Apricot Bars with Walnuts and Coconut Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Apricot Bars combine a tender buttery crust with a sweet, fruity apricot filling mixed with walnuts and coconut. Baked to golden perfection and dusted with powdered sugar, they make a delightful treat perfect for snacking or dessert.
Ingredients
Crust
- ½ cup butter, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Filling
- â…” cup dried apricots
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- â…“ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- ½ cup sweetened flaked coconut
Topping
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Soften Apricots: Place dried apricots in a small saucepan and add enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until softened. Drain well, allow to cool, then chop into small pieces.
- Make Crust: In a medium bowl, use an electric hand mixer or food processor to combine softened butter, granulated sugar, and 1 cup of the flour until coarse crumbs form. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the crust is lightly golden around the edges.
- Prepare Filling Mixture: While the crust is baking, beat the eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl with an electric hand mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining â…“ cup of flour, baking powder, and salt. Add this dry mixture to the egg mixture and stir just until incorporated.
- Combine Filling Components: Fold the chopped apricots, chopped walnuts, and sweetened flaked coconut into the filling batter, mixing gently to combine.
- Assemble Bars: As soon as the crust comes out of the oven, spread the apricot filling evenly over the hot crust layer in the baking dish.
- Bake Bars: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is puffed, golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Finish: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into 16 bars. Remove bars from the pan and roll in or sprinkle with powdered sugar to coat evenly before serving.
Notes
- Soaking the apricots softens them, ensuring a tender filling and preventing dryness.
- Using parchment paper makes it easier to lift the bars out of the pan for cutting.
- Chilling the dough briefly before pressing can help form a sturdier crust if desired.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For a nut-free version, omit walnuts or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
