Luscious Apricot Squares
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Aggregated Rating: 5 stars
Review Count: 2
Calories per Serving: 199.5
Fat Content: 8.9g
Saturated Fat Content: 4.1g
Cholesterol Content: 38.5mg
Sodium Content: 111.9mg
Carbohydrate Content: 28.6g
Fiber Content: 0.9g
Sugar Content: 19.5g
Protein Content: 2.7g
Recipe Yield: 16 squares
Recipe Category: Bar Cookie
Keywords: Dessert, Cookie & Brownie, Weeknight, Oven, < 4 Hours
Description:
I adopted this delightful recipe in late 2005 and couldn’t resist bringing it to life in my kitchen in February 2006. Ever since, I’ve adhered faithfully to its original instructions because, truth be told, it’s nothing short of perfection. This sumptuous slice boasts a shortcake-like base, complemented by a cakey apricot caramel topping that strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and texture. Whether adorned with a lavish dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat or savored in its unadorned simplicity, this creation is a delightful addition to any dessert repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/3 cups butter
- 1/2 cup margarine
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup walnuts
- 1/2 cup baking powder
- 1/2 cup vanilla
- 1/4 cup salt
- Confectioners’ sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions:
-
Begin by preparing the apricots: In a covered small saucepan over low heat, immerse the apricots in enough water to cover them and simmer for 15 minutes until tender. Drain the apricots and finely chop them.
-
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, and generously grease an 8 x 8-inch pan to ensure the perfect release of these delectable squares.
-
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, butter or margarine, and sugar. Using a mixer set at medium speed, beat the ingredients until well mixed and crumbly.
-
Pat the resulting mixture evenly into the greased pan, forming a sturdy and golden brown base. Bake for approximately 25 minutes or until the edges turn a delightful shade of golden brown.
-
While the base is baking, utilize the same bowl to measure 1/3 cup flour, eggs, chopped apricots, brown sugar, walnuts, baking powder, vanilla, and salt. Beat the ingredients at medium speed until a harmonious blend is achieved, occasionally scraping the bowl with a rubber spatula.
-
Once the base is baked to perfection, pour the apricot-infused mixture over it, distributing it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes or until the top layer achieves a tantalizing golden hue.
-
Allow the creation to cool in the pan, allowing the flavors to settle and the textures to meld into a harmonious union.
-
Once cooled, cut the delightful concoction into squares, creating bite-sized delights that are perfect for sharing.
-
To add the finishing touch, sprinkle the squares with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar, elevating their visual appeal and adding a subtle sweetness to each bite.
Final Thoughts:
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, these Luscious Apricot Squares are sure to become a cherished part of your recipe repertoire. The harmonious marriage of textures, from the crumbly shortcake-like base to the cakey apricot caramel top, creates a symphony of flavors that is truly irresistible. Enjoy them on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience that will leave your taste buds singing praises. This recipe, unaltered since its discovery, has garnered a perfect 5-star rating from the fortunate few who have indulged in its decadent charm. Embrace the joy of baking and treat yourself to these divine squares – a timeless classic that stands the test of time.
