Apricot Shortbread Bars

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Apricot Shortbread Bars are soft, buttery treats with a sweet apricot jam topping, adding a delightful taste of summer.

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Experience the perfect balance of buttery richness and fruity sweetness with our Apricot Shortbread Bars. Imagine a golden-brown shortbread base, crumbly and melt-in-your-mouth tender, topped with a layer of luscious apricot jam. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, where the delicate sweetness of apricots meets the indulgent butteriness of the shortbread. These bars are a delightful treat for any occasion, whether enjoyed as a midday snack or a delightful dessert. With their irresistible aroma and heavenly taste, our Apricot Shortbread Bars are sure to become a new favorite.

Shortbread Cookies are a timeless dessert that you can whip up using just a few basic ingredients. This version adds a layer of apricot jam to the traditional shortbread base, giving it a sweet and tangy twist.

The simple shortbread base is made with common pantry staples like eggs, vanilla, flour, sugar, and butter. Then, to elevate these bars into a special treat, we spread a layer of apricot jam on top. The addition of apricots brings a burst of sweet and refreshing summer flavor that you’ll love.

Although apricots are typically in season during the summer, you can enjoy these apricot squares year-round. Since the apricot flavor comes from jam, which stores well, you can make this delicious apricot shortbread recipe anytime. I’ve even served them at holiday gatherings, and they’ve been a hit!

Tips:

  • Prep Time: Before starting, preheat your oven and grease your baking dish with nonstick baking spray. Also, take the butter out of the fridge a few minutes beforehand to soften.
  • Dough: In a stand mixer, combine the softened butter and sugar. Cream them together on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Finally, add the flour, baking powder, and salt, and stir until just combined into moist crumbs.
  • Assemble: Divide the dough in half. Spread one half evenly over the prepared baking dish, gently pressing it down to form an even layer. Next, spread the apricot jam evenly over the dough. Finally, sprinkle the remaining dough as a crumb topping.
  • Baking Time: Bake for 35-40 minutes until the bars are lightly golden brown with crisp edges. Allow them to cool completely before slicing into squares.

Variations on Apricot Shortbread Bars:

  • Jams: While apricot jam brings a summery brightness, feel free to explore other jam flavors. Try strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, blackberry, or even marmalade for a unique twist on these bars.
  • Flavorings: Switch things up by substituting almond extract for vanilla or adding warm baking spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the dough for a different flavor profile.
  • Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Sprinkle large-grain sugar for a sparkly finish, or add shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or sliced fruit for extra texture and flavor.

How to Store Apricot Shortbread Bars:

Serve: After baking, these bars can be kept at room temperature for up to 4 days. Cover the dish with foil or transfer the bars to an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Store: For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Freeze: Seal the bars tightly in an airtight container or freezer bag for freezer storage of up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge before reheating in the oven for a few minutes to enjoy perfect Apricot Shortbread Bars anytime.

Love bars? Be sure to check out these other delicious bar recipes!

Apple Crisp Cream Cheese Bars

Biscoff Cheesecake Bars

Caramel Apple Bars

 

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