bars are a delightful mix of sweet apricots and rich dates, perfect for a wholesome snack or a quick breakfast treat. Easy to make and full of natural flavors, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Prep Time25 min
Cook Time35 min
Total Time1 hr
Difficulty
Hard
Cooking Tips You Should Know
Use dried fruits that are soft and fresh for the best texture.
Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure the bars hold together well.
Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to get clean edges.
Ingredients
0/10
Why You'll Love Making This
These bars offer a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors thanks to the apricots and dates. They are chewy yet slightly crumbly, making them a delightful treat for any time of day. Plus, they are packed with natural fruits, adding a wholesome touch to your snack.
Step 1
Combin the brown sugar, dates, apricots, and apricot nectar in a saucepan. Heat it over medium, stirring constantly, until the nectar thickens and mostly evaporates—this should take about 5 minutes. Once it’s nice and sticky, take it off the heat and let it cool while you prepare the rest.
Step 2
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking sheet. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt, then set that aside.
Step 3
In a large bowl, mix the melted shortening, vanilla, and 1 cup of brown sugar until smooth and lump-free. Add the flour mixture and oats, then use your hands to bring everything together evenly.
Step 4
Press half of this oat mixture firmly into the bottom of your baking sheet. Spread the cooled apricot-date filling evenly over it, then press the remaining oat mixture on top, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
Step 5
Pop the tray into the oven and bake until the top turns a lovely golden brown, about 30 minutes. Let the bars cool completely before slicing and serving.
406
people cooked this recipe
ByDaniel Wilson
Daniel focuses on practical recipes with clear steps and familiar ingredients.
How To Serve This Dish
Enjoy these bars as a quick breakfast on the go or a midday snack with a cup of tea or coffee. They also pair nicely with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Proper Storage Tips
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator where they will last for up to two weeks. You can also freeze the bars individually wrapped for up to three months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of dried fruit instead of apricots and dates?
Yes, you can substitute with other dried fruits like raisins, figs, or cranberries, but the flavor and texture may vary.
What can I use if I don’t have apricot nectar?
You can replace apricot nectar with orange juice, apple juice, or even water with a little honey for sweetness.
How should I store these bars to keep them fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Can I use butter instead of vegetable shortening?
Yes, melted butter can be used, but it may change the texture slightly, making the bars a bit denser.
Do I need to line the baking sheet with parchment paper?
It’s not required if you grease the pan well, but lining it with parchment paper can make removing the bars easier.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and gluten-free oats, but the texture might differ.
How thick should I press the oat mixture in the pan?
Press it evenly to about 1/2 inch thick for both the bottom and top layers to ensure even baking.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the apricot-date filling a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.
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