Apricot Almond Cream Cheese Squares

🍑🥖🧀 Apricot Almond Cream Cheese Squares 🍑🥖🧀

What is it?
Apricot Almond Cream Cheese Squares are a delightful dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of apricots with the nuttiness of almonds and the creamy richness of cream cheese. These squares are typically made with a buttery crust, a creamy cream cheese and almond filling, and a layer of apricot preserves on top. They offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making them a favorite treat for many.

History:
The exact origin of Apricot Almond Cream Cheese Squares is unclear, but similar recipes have been enjoyed for generations, especially in European and American baking traditions. The combination of fruit preserves, nuts, and cream cheese in desserts has a long history, with various adaptations and regional variations.

Components:

• Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • A pinch of salt

• Cream Cheese Filling:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp almond extract
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds

• Apricot Topping:

  • 1 cup apricot preserves

Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Crust:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
   • Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan.
   • Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden.

2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:

   • In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg, and almond extract until smooth and creamy.
   • Spread this cream cheese mixture over the baked crust.

3. Add the Almonds:

   • Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the cream cheese layer.

4. Apply the Apricot Topping:

   • Warm the apricot preserves in a saucepan over low heat until they become easy to spread.
   • Gently spread the warmed apricot preserves over the almond layer.

5. Bake and Cool:

   • Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned, and the filling is set.
   • Let it cool in the pan on a wire rack, then refrigerate for a few hours to set the filling completely.

6. Cut into Squares:

   • Once chilled, cut the dessert into squares of your desired size.

Time Needed:

• Preparation Time: Approximately 20-30 minutes
• Baking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
• Cooling and Chilling Time: 2-4 hours

These Apricot Almond Cream Cheese Squares are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed on various occasions. 🍑🥖🧀 Serve them as a dessert after dinner or as a sweet addition to brunch. Their combination of flavors and textures is sure to be a hit! Enjoy! 😊👌

Certainly! Here are the approximate nutrition facts and some health information for Apricot Almond Cream Cheese Squares (per serving, based on a standard recipe):

• Calories: Approximately 300-350 calories per square.
• Total Fat: Around 20-25 grams.
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 10-12 grams.
• Cholesterol: About 50-60 milligrams.
• Sodium: Approximately 150-200 milligrams.
• Total Carbohydrates: Around 25-30 grams.
  • Dietary Fiber: Roughly 1-2 grams.
  • Sugars: Approximately 15-20 grams.
• Protein: About 4-6 grams.

Please note that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. The information provided here is a general estimate and should be used as a guideline. Additionally, Apricot Almond Cream Cheese Squares are a dessert, and while they can be a delicious treat, they are not particularly high in nutritional value and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Keep in mind that the cream cheese, butter, and sugar in this dessert contribute to its calorie and fat content, so it’s best to savor these squares as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily snack.