Apricot Bars With Shortbread Crust

🍑 Apricot Bars with Shortbread Crust 🍪

Apricot bars with a shortbread crust are a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of apricots with the rich, buttery goodness of a shortbread crust. This delicious treat is perfect for anyone who enjoys fruity, buttery, and slightly tart flavors.

📜 History:
The history of apricot bars with shortbread crust is not well-documented, but it is part of a broader tradition of fruit-based bar desserts. Shortbread itself has a long history, originating in Scotland in the 12th century. The combination of apricots and shortbread likely evolved over time as people sought creative ways to use seasonal fruits in their baking.

🧁 Components:

1. Shortbread Crust:

   • 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, softened
   • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
   • 2 cups all-purpose flour
   • A pinch of salt

2. Apricot Filling:

   • 2 cups fresh or dried apricots (or apricot preserves)
   • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
   • 1/4 cup water
   • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
   • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

3. Optional Topping:

   • Powdered sugar for dusting
   • Sliced almonds for decoration

⏰ Preparation Time:
Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours (including baking and cooling time).

📝 Steps to Prepare Apricot Bars with Shortbread Crust:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Prepare the Shortbread Crust:

   • In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Gradually add the flour and a pinch of salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
   • Press the shortbread dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.

3. Make the Apricot Filling:

   • If using fresh apricots, pit and chop them. If using dried apricots, chop them into small pieces.
   • In a saucepan, combine the apricots, granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the apricots become soft and jam-like. This typically takes about 15-20 minutes.

4. Assemble and Bake:

   • Spread the apricot filling evenly over the shortbread crust in the pan.
   • If desired, sprinkle sliced almonds on top for added texture and flavor.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges of the shortbread are golden brown.

5. Cool and Serve:

   • Allow the apricot bars to cool completely in the pan. You can speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator.
   • Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a lovely finish.
   • Cut into squares or bars and serve.

Now you have a mouthwatering batch of apricot bars with a buttery shortbread crust, perfect for enjoying as a snack or dessert. These bars are a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors that are sure to please your taste buds. Enjoy! 😋🍑🍪

Certainly! Here are some nutrition facts and health information for apricot bars with a shortbread crust:

📊 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approximate):

• Calories: 180-220 calories (may vary based on portion size)
• Total Fat: 8-10 grams
• Saturated Fat: 5-6 grams
• Cholesterol: 20-25 mg
• Sodium: 40-50 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
• Sugars: 15-18 grams
• Protein: 2-3 grams
• Vitamin A: About 15-20% of the Daily Recommended Intake (DRI)
• Vitamin C: About 4-6% of the DRI
• Calcium: About 1-2% of the DRI
• Iron: About 3-4% of the DRI

🍏 Health Information:

1. Moderate Calories: Apricot bars can be moderate in calories, making them a reasonable dessert option when consumed in moderation.

2. Fat Content: The shortbread crust contributes to the fat content. While it’s delicious, be mindful of portion size due to its saturated fat content.

3. Fiber: Apricots provide a small amount of dietary fiber, which is good for digestion and may help you feel fuller for longer.

4. Vitamins: Apricots are rich in vitamin A, which is important for eye health and immune function. They also contain some vitamin C, which supports skin health and the immune system.

5. Minerals: While not a significant source, apricots do provide small amounts of calcium and iron, which are essential for bone health and oxygen transport in the body, respectively.

6. Added Sugars: Be cautious of added sugars, especially in the apricot filling and shortbread crust. Consuming too much added sugar can have negative effects on health.

7. Portion Control: Due to the buttery shortbread crust and potential sugar content, it’s best to enjoy these apricot bars in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack.

Remember that the actual nutrition content may vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your recipe. Adjusting the recipe to use healthier substitutes, such as whole wheat flour or reducing sugar, can make these bars a slightly more nutritious option.