Coconut Apricot Bars Recipe

A Coconut Apricot Bars Recipe is an easy-to-make treat that combines the sweetness of apricots with the tropical flavor of coconut. Perfect for any gathering, these bars are delightful as a dessert or snack. Their chewy texture and rich taste make them a favorite among both kids and adults. Plus, they’re highly versatile; feel free to swap out the apricot preserves for your favorite jam!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious bars in under an hour.
• Customizable Flavor: Use any fruit preserves you love, from raspberry to peach, for a personal twist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a picnic, birthday party, or just a cozy night in, these bars fit right in.
• Deliciously Chewy Texture: The combination of coconut and almonds creates a satisfying chew that keeps you coming back for more.
• Great Make-Ahead Treat: These bars hold up well, making them perfect for meal prep or baking in advance.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Coconut Apricot Bars Recipe, gather the necessary tools to streamline your process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking pan (9 x 13)
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spilling.
• Baking pan: A 9 x 13 pan is ideal for this recipe, providing ample space for even baking.
• Spatula: Perfect for spreading dough evenly in the pan and scraping down sides during mixing.

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Ingredients

A terrific coconut apricot bar that can be customized using your favorite jam

For the Base

• ¾ cup butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 cup flour (see note below)
• ¼ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 ⅓ cups coconut, I used sweetened Angel Flake

For the Topping

• ½ cup slivered almonds, plus more to sprinkle over bars
• ½ teaspoon vanilla
• 13-ounce jar apricot preserves (may use other flavors)

How to Make Coconut Apricot Bars Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Line your 9 x 13 baking pan with non-stick foil or regular foil sprayed with cooking spray.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg

Add one egg to the mixture and mix well until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture. Stir in the coconut, slivered almonds, and vanilla until everything is blended well.

Step 5: Adjust Dough Consistency (Optional)

If you’d like sturdier bars, consider adding another ½ cup of flour at this stage.

Step 6: Press Dough into Pan

Press two-thirds of the dough into your prepared baking pan evenly.

Step 7: Spread Preserves

Spread the apricot preserves over the layer of dough carefully.

Step 8: Crumble Remaining Dough

Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the preserves evenly.

Step 9: Add Almonds on Top

Sprinkle additional slivered almonds over the top if desired.

Step 10: Bake

Place in preheated oven and bake at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 11: Cool and Cut

Once baked, allow to cool before cutting into squares for serving. Enjoy!

With this Coconut Apricot Bars Recipe, you’ll have a delightful treat that impresses everyone while being easy to make!

How to Serve Coconut Apricot Bars Recipe

Coconut apricot bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these bars are versatile enough to pair with numerous accompaniments.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries – Serve with a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Sliced Apples – Crisp apple slices add a crunchy texture and balance the sweetness of the bars.

With Whipped Topping

• Coconut Whipped Cream – A dollop of coconut whipped cream enhances the tropical flavors beautifully.
• Vanilla Bean Cream – This rich topping pairs well, adding depth to the sweet apricot filling.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cheese Platter – Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an elegant touch to your dessert spread.
• Chocolate Dipped Treats – Complement with chocolate-covered strawberries or pretzels for added indulgence.

How to Perfect Coconut Apricot Bars Recipe

Achieving the ideal coconut apricot bars is simple with a few tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your bars turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Adjust Flour for Texture – If you prefer sturdier bars, consider adding more flour gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
• Cool Before Cutting – Let the bars cool completely before cutting them into squares for cleaner edges.
• Store Properly – Keep the bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.

Best Side Dishes for Coconut Apricot Bars Recipe

These coconut apricot bars can be served alongside complementary side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fruit Salad – A refreshing blend of seasonal fruits adds brightness to your dessert table.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a delicious contrast to the sweet bars.
3. Tea or Herbal Infusions – Pair with herbal teas like chamomile or mint for a soothing finish.
4. Nut Mix – A selection of spiced nuts offers a crunchy element that contrasts nicely with the chewy texture of the bars.
5. Ice Cream – Vanilla or coconut ice cream creates a delightful combination when served warm.
6. Granola Bars – For those who want something crunchy, homemade granola bars make great companions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Coconut Apricot Bars Recipe a success. Here are some mistakes and how to steer clear of them:

• Skipping the Room Temperature Butter: Using cold butter can lead to uneven mixing, making your bars dense. Always ensure your butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can affect the texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for precision.

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to tough bars. Mix until just combined to keep them tender and delicious.

• Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your bars; baking them too long can dry them out. Check for golden brown edges as a cue.

• Forgetting to Line the Pan: Not lining your baking pan may result in sticking. Always line it with non-stick foil or regular foil sprayed with cooking spray for easy removal.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Coconut Apricot Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
• For best results, layer parchment paper between bars to prevent sticking.

Freezing Coconut Apricot Bars Recipe

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Coconut Apricot Bars Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm, but not hot.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, placing a lid on top to retain moisture while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Coconut Apricot Bars Recipe that you might find helpful:

Can I use different types of preserves?

Yes! While apricot preserves are delightful, any fruit jam like peach or raspberry works well too.

How do I make these bars gluten-free?

To make this Coconut Apricot Bars Recipe gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What can I replace the butter with?

You can use coconut oil or vegan butter as alternatives if you’re looking for a dairy-free version of this recipe.

Can I add more coconut?

Absolutely! Feel free to increase the coconut amount if you prefer a more pronounced coconut flavor in your bars.

How do I serve these bars?

Coconut Apricot Bars are perfect as an afternoon snack or dessert and pair well with coffee or tea!

Final Thoughts

These Coconut Apricot Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. The recipe allows you to customize it using various jams, making it suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or simply treating yourself, give this recipe a try!