Best Apricot Date Bars Recipes

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APRICOT-DATE BARS



Apricot-Date Bars image

A makeover of the old date bars, these bars have a delightful sweet-tart filling, are thin and crispy. Really nice with a cup of tea or coffee. Store in a tightly sealed container.

Provided by Jan Mowbray

Categories     Desserts     Cookies     Fruit Cookie Recipes     Date

Time 1h40m

Yield 49

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 ¾ cups quick-cooking oats
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups packed brown sugar, divided
¾ tablespoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup butter, softened
1 ¼ cups pitted and chopped dates
1 ¼ cups chopped dried apricots
1 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps:

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  • Mix oats, flour, 1 cup brown sugar, baking soda, and salt together in a large bowl. Stir in butter until mixture is crumbly.
  • Press a little over half of the crumbly mixture into the bottom of a 10x15-inch baking pan.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until starting to brown, 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Combine remaining 1/2 cup brown sugar, dates, apricots, and orange juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cook and stir until thickened, breaking up any clumps, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Cool filling slightly, about 5 minutes.
  • Drop spoonfuls of warm filling over the crust. Spread evenly with an offset spatula. Sprinkle remaining crumbly mixture evenly over the filling; press gently into the filling.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until top is lightly browned, about 25 minutes. Cut into 1-1/4x2-inch bars with a pastry cutter while still hot. Cool bars in the pan, about 20 minutes.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 96.6 calories, Carbohydrate 16.9 g, Cholesterol 7.5 mg, Fat 3.1 g, Fiber 0.9 g, Protein 1.1 g, SaturatedFat 1.8 g, Sodium 88.4 mg, Sugar 11.2 g

APRICOT AND DATE BARS



Apricot and Date Bars image

A hearty cobbler, loaded with dried fruits and nuts - in bar form. Betty Crocker® snickerdoodle cookie mix makes this wonderful dessert easy to make.

Provided by Betty Crocker Kitchens

Categories     Dessert

Time 2h10m

Yield 24

Number Of Ingredients 8

2 cups orange juice
3/4 cup chopped pitted dates
3/4 cup chopped dried apricots
1/2 cup dried cherries
1/3 cup apricot jam
1 pouch Betty Crocker™ snickerdoodle cookie mix
1/2 cup cold butter, cut into pieces
3/4 cup chopped pecans

Steps:

  • In 2-quart saucepan, mix orange juice, dates, apricots and cherries. Heat to boiling over medium heat. Remove from heat; cover and let stand 30 minutes. Drain. In small bowl, mix dried fruit and apricot jam.
  • Heat oven to 350°F. Spray 13x9-inch pan with cooking spray. In large bowl, place cookie mix and cinnamon-sugar packet. Cut in butter, using pastry blender (or pulling 2 table knives through mix in opposite directions), until mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Reserve 1 1/2 cups of the crumb mixture. Press remaining mixture in bottom of pan. Bake 10 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool.
  • Top partially baked crust with fruit mixture. Mix reserved 1 1/2 cups crumb mixture and the pecans. Sprinkle over fruit mixture.
  • Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until light golden brown. Cool completely in pan on cooling rack, about 1 hour. Cut into 6 rows by 4 rows.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 190, Carbohydrate 30 g, Fat 1 1/2, Fiber 2 g, Protein 1 g, SaturatedFat 3 g, ServingSize 1 Serving, Sodium 170 mg

FIRST PLACE APRICOT-DATE BARS



First Place Apricot-Date Bars image

This recipe goes way back; I grew up loving these bars. I entered this in the Jefferson County Fair on August 28, 2010. It won First Place.

Provided by Judi Harris

Categories     Desserts     Cookies     Fruit Cookie Recipes     Date

Time 2h10m

Yield 48

Number Of Ingredients 11

½ cup brown sugar
1 cup pitted Medjool dates, cut into small pieces
8 ounces dried apricots, cut into small pieces
½ cup apricot nectar (such as Kern's®)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
¾ cup vegetable shortening, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup brown sugar
2 cups rolled oats

Steps:

  • Place 1/2 cup of brown sugar into a saucepan along with the dates and apricots; pour in the apricot nectar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, and cook, stirring constantly, until the nectar has mostly evaporated and the mixture is sticky, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool.
  • Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl; set aside. Grease a baking sheet.
  • Stir the melted shortening and vanilla extract into 1 cup of brown sugar in a large bowl until no lumps remain. Stir in the flour mixture and oats; work well with your hands until the mixture is evenly combined. Press half of the oat mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread the cooled apricot mixture evenly over the oats, then press the remaining oat mixture evenly over top.
  • Bake in the preheated oven until the top is golden brown, about 30 minutes. Cool completely before cutting into bars and serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 107.8 calories, Carbohydrate 18.6 g, Fat 3.5 g, Fiber 1.1 g, Protein 1.2 g, SaturatedFat 0.8 g, Sodium 77.5 mg, Sugar 11.5 g

FIRST PLACE APRICOT-DATE BARS



First Place Apricot-Date Bars image

This was in my mother's handwritten cookbook. It's a family favorite and so yummy! It won First Place at the Jefferson County Fair on August 28, 2010.

Provided by Judi Harris-Nulle

Categories     Cookies

Time 50m

Number Of Ingredients 14

FIRST PLACE APRICOT-DATE BARS
CRUMB MIXTURE
3/4 c melted shortening
1 c brown sugar, firmly packed
2 c all purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
2 c old-fashioned oats
1 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla
APRICOT FILLING
1 c pitted dates cut into small pieces
1 8 ounce package dried apricots, cut into small pieces
1/2 c brown sugar, firmly packed
1/2 c kern's apricot nectar

Steps:

  • 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • 2. For the crumb mixture, in a large bowl blend shortening, sugar and vanilla. Sift flour, soda, and salt and add to bowl. Add the oatmeal; work well with hands. Press 1/2 of the mixture onto a medium greased cooking sheet, pressing down firmly.
  • 3. For the apricot filling, put the pitted dates, dried apricots, brown sugar, and apricot nectar in a sauce pan and cook for about 5 minutes until thick. Stir constantly as it can easily burn. The apricot nectar should evaporate while it cooks. Cool slightly (about 5 minutes) before spreading on crumb mixture. Once cool, spread apricot mixture on top of the crumb mixture. Top with the rest of the crumb mixture, pressing down firmly. Bake for 30 minutes or until top is brown. Cool before cutting and serving.

APRICOT - DATE BARS



Apricot - Date Bars image

A moist type bar cookie. Delicious!

Provided by Esther Kenagy

Categories     Desserts     Cookies     Fruit Cookie Recipes     Date

Yield 24

Number Of Ingredients 10

1 cup dates, pitted and chopped
1 ¾ cups drained stewed apricots
½ cup white sugar
2 tablespoons apricot nectar
¾ cup shortening, melted
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 cups quick cooking oats
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps:

  • To Make Filling: Cook together the dates, drained cooked apricots, white sugar and apricot juice. Cook for about three minutes, or until it resembles jam.
  • To Make Crust: Mix together melted shortening (part butter), brown sugar, all-purpose flour, baking soda, quick cooking oats, and vanilla.
  • Press half of the crust mixture on bottom of well greased 9 x 12 x 2 inch pan. Cover with filling. Top with rest of crumbs. Press down gently.
  • Bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Nutrition Facts : Calories 205.1 calories, Carbohydrate 34.5 g, Fat 7 g, Fiber 1.9 g, Protein 2.3 g, SaturatedFat 1.7 g, Sodium 56.5 mg, Sugar 20.8 g

What are Apricot Date Bars?

Apricot date bars are a healthy and delicious snack that can be made at home using only a few simple ingredients. These bars are typically made with a mixture of dried apricots, dates, nuts, and seeds, all held together with a sticky binder like honey or nut butter.

Ingredients

The following are the typical ingredients needed to make apricot date bars:

  • Dried apricots
  • Dates
  • Nuts (preferably almonds, walnuts, or cashews)
  • Seeds (pumpkin, flax, or chia)
  • Honey or nut butter (like almond or peanut butter)
  • Vanilla extract (optional)
  • Pinch of salt (optional)
Preparation

The preparation of apricot date bars typically involves the following steps:

  1. Prepare the dried apricots and dates by removing any pits and chopping them into small pieces.
  2. Toast the nuts and seeds in the oven for a few minutes or until they are lightly browned and fragrant (this step is optional, but it adds an extra layer of flavor to the bars).
  3. In a food processor, blend together the dried apricots, dates, nuts, and seeds until they are finely chopped and resemble a coarse meal.
  4. Add in the honey or nut butter, vanilla extract, and salt (if using) and blend until the mixture begins to stick together and form a ball.
  5. Hydrate the mixture with a few tablespoons of hot water, if necessary, until the mixture is sticky and holds together when pressed.
  6. Press the mixture into a lined baking dish and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or until the bars are firm enough to cut into pieces.
Variations

While the basic recipe for apricot date bars is delicious on its own, there are many variations that can be made to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are a few ideas:

  • Add shredded coconut or cocoa powder to the mixture for a tropical or chocolatey twist.
  • Swap out the apricots and/or dates for other dried fruits like figs, raisins, or cranberries.
  • Use different nuts and seeds like pecans, sunflower seeds, or sesame seeds.
  • Add in spices like cinnamon, cardamom, or ginger for extra flavor.
  • Drizzle melted dark chocolate on top for an indulgent treat.
Benefits

Apricot date bars are not only delicious, but they are also packed with nutrients and health benefits. Here are a few reasons why you should consider making your own apricot date bars:

  • Dried apricots and dates are rich in fiber and essential vitamins and minerals like potassium, iron, and vitamin A.
  • Nuts and seeds are a good source of heart-healthy fats, protein, and other nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium.
  • Honey or nut butter (depending on which you use) are natural sweeteners that can provide a quick burst of energy without spiking blood sugar levels.
  • Apricot date bars are a great snack to take on the go, whether it's to work, school, or outdoor activities like hiking or camping.
  • Making your own snacks at home can be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than buying pre-packaged snacks.

Conclusion

Apricot date bars are a nutrient-packed snack that is easy to make at home using simple, wholesome ingredients. Whether you stick to the basic recipe or get creative with your own variations, these bars are a delicious and healthy option for snacking on the go.

Apricot date bars are an excellent and healthy addition to your snack list. They are a perfect snack option for people who lead an active lifestyle and prefer to have a quick and healthy snack on-the-go. The versatility of apricot date bars makes them an easy pick for picnics, long drives, or a day out in the park. In this article, we will explore some valuable tips to consider when making apricot date bars.

Tips for selecting apricots and dates

When making apricot date bars, it is essential to select quality ingredients to ensure that the final product is delicious and suitable for consumption. The following are some tips on how to select apricots and dates for your recipe:
Choose ripe apricots
Selecting ripe apricots is crucial when making apricot date bars. Ripe apricots are sweeter and juicier, which enhances the flavor of the bars. When selecting apricots, choose those that are free of bruises and blemishes. Additionally, ripe apricots have a slight give when gently squeezed.
Choose fresh dates
Fresh dates are fundamental for making apricot date bars that taste great. When selecting dates, choose those that are soft and plump. Avoid dried-out dates or those that have signs of mold or insect damage. Fresh dates have a caramel-like taste, which will add sweetness and texture to your bars.

Use whole ingredients

Using whole ingredients when making apricot date bars is essential for health purposes. It's best to use unprocessed and whole ingredients to ensure that the bars are healthy, delicious, and nutrient-dense. Make sure to read the labels before purchasing ingredients to ensure that they are not overly processed and contain no added sugars.

Soak the dates before using them

Soaking the dates before using them is an essential step when making apricot date bars. Soaking the dates will make them softer and easier to blend or chop. Additionally, soaking the dates will improve the texture and sweetness of your bars. To soak the dates, place them in a bowl of warm water for 15-20 minutes.

Add nuts for added crunch

If you are looking to add some texture and crunchiness to your apricot date bars, then adding nuts to the recipe is an excellent option. Nuts such as almonds, pecans, and walnuts add a crunchy texture to the bars, and they are also a healthy source of protein and omega fatty acids.

Use a food processor or blender to mix

A food processor or blender is an essential tool when making apricot date bars. It helps to break down the ingredients, especially the dates, into a smooth paste. Additionally, it blends all the ingredients together to create a smooth and homogenous mixture, which results in a more consistent final product.

Press the mixture firmly into the pan

Firmly pressing the apricot date mixture into the pan is important to ensure that the bars are cohesive and hold together. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press the mixture evenly into the pan. Additionally, use a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap to prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands or spatula.

Cut into even-sized bars

When the apricot date bars are done, it's important to cut them into even-sized bars. This will make them look more attractive and easy to eat. Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into the desired size and shape. A square or rectangle shape is the easiest to cut and store.

Store the bars properly

Proper storage is necessary to ensure that the apricot date bars remain fresh and healthy. Store them in an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator or freezer. The bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, remove them from the refrigerator or freezer and allow them to come to room temperature.

Conclusion

In conclusion, apricot date bars are a healthy and delicious snack option that is easy to make. With the above tips, you can create apricot date bars that are healthy, tasty, and enjoyable. Remember to utilize whole ingredients, soak the dates, add nuts, and use a food processor to achieve the best results. Whether you're packing them for a hiking trip or snacking on them at work, you'll love these healthy and nutritious bars.

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