Bars with Apricot and Cherry and an Oatmeal Crumble
fruity bars combine the sweet tang of apricots and cherries with a crunchy oatmeal crumble for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. They’re easy to make and great for a snack or dessert anytime.
Prep Time0 min
Total Time1 min
Difficulty
Easy
Simple Cooking Tips
Use fresh or well-drained frozen fruit to avoid a soggy crust.
Press the crumble topping firmly to help it stay together during baking.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.
Ingredients
0/10
Why This Recipe Is A Favorite
These bars are a perfect balance of sweet and tangy with the apricot and cherry filling. The oatmeal crumble adds a nice texture that is both crunchy and chewy. They make a great snack or dessert that feels homemade and comforting.
Step 1
Move your oven rack to the lower-middle position and preheat it to 325 degrees. Lightly spray a 13-by-9-inch baking dish with vegetable cooking spray and set it aside.
Step 2
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and salt. Use a fork to mix in the butter until the mixture is crumbly and clumps together a bit. Take about 1 1/2 packed cups of this oat mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a thin crust.
Step 3
In a larger bowl, toss together the coconut, almonds, cherries, apricots, and milk. Spread this fruit mixture evenly over the crust, pressing down gently with a rubber spatula to help it settle.
Step 4
Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture over the top of the fruit layer, covering it as best you can. Bake the bars for about 30 minutes, until the top turns a nice light golden color.
Step 5
Once out of the oven, let the bars cool completely to room temperature before slicing. You can keep them covered on the counter for up to two days.
Step 6
When you're ready to serve, cut into generous 1 1/2-inch squares and enjoy!
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people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Serving Inspiration
Enjoy these bars on their own with a cup of tea or coffee. They also pair well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Perfect for sharing at picnics or casual gatherings.
Food Storage Tips
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them individually wrapped for up to three months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
Yes, but the bars may be less sweet. You might want to add a bit more brown sugar to balance the flavor.
How do I store these bars to keep them fresh?
Store them covered at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container.
Can I substitute the almonds with another nut?
Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or cashews work well as alternatives.
Is it necessary to chill the bars before slicing?
No chilling is required, but letting them cool completely to room temperature helps them hold together better when cut.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free oats and a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?
You can try evaporated milk with added sugar, but the texture and sweetness may vary.
Will these bars keep well if frozen?
Yes, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I use fresh apricots and cherries instead of dried?
Fresh fruit will add more moisture and may affect baking time and texture, so dried is preferred for best results.
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