If you are anything like me, nothing beats the perfect combination of fruity sweetness, nutty crunch, and a touch of coconut in a dessert. That’s exactly why I adore this Apricot Walnut Coconut Bars Recipe. These bars come together with a delectably tender crust, a luscious apricot filling studded with crunchy walnuts, and a sprinkle of coconut that adds just the right tropical vibe. Whether you’re packing a lunchbox treat or hosting a cozy afternoon tea, these bars bring that warm, homemade comfort that makes everyone ask for seconds. The balance of flavors and textures is truly irresistible, making this recipe a favorite to keep on hand.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you really need are a handful of simple pantry staples that pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each ingredient was chosen to contribute something special, whether it’s the buttery crust, the chewy apricot bite, or the coconut’s slight sweetness. Let’s take a look:
- Butter (½ cup softened): Provides a rich, tender crumb that forms the perfect base crust.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Adds subtle sweetness to balance the buttery crust.
- All-purpose flour (1â…“ cups divided): Essential for structure, with a portion reserved for the crust and the filling mixture.
- Dried apricots (â…” cup): Soaked and chopped, they bring juicy bursts of natural tartness and fruity aroma.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together, creating that perfect chewy consistency.
- Brown sugar (1 cup packed): Adds deep caramel notes and moistness to the filling.
- Baking powder (½ teaspoon): Gives a slight lift to the filling’s texture, making it tender.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Pure vanilla extract (½ teaspoon): Infuses the filling with warm, inviting aroma.
- Chopped walnuts (½ cup): Adds delightful crunch and richness against the soft filling.
- Sweetened flaked coconut (½ cup): Introduces a chewy texture and tropical flair.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): For that classic finishing touch—delicate sweetness dusted over the bars.
How to Make Apricot Walnut Coconut Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Apricots
Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees F and greasing an 8×8-inch baking dish or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later. Next, soften your dried apricots by boiling them in just enough water to cover for about 10 minutes. This step is key to getting that melt-in-your-mouth apricot texture once baked. After they’ve cooled and drained, chop them up roughly—these pieces are the heart of your filling.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Grab a medium bowl and combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and 1 cup of the flour using an electric mixer or food processor. You’ll want a coarse crumb that can be pressed firmly into the pan, forming a golden, buttery base after baking for about 15 to 18 minutes. This layer provides a satisfying contrast to the soft, gooey filling you’ll add next.
Step 3: Whip Up the Filling
While the crust bakes, blend eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Then whisk the remaining flour together with baking powder and salt separately before gently folding this into the egg mixture—just enough so it’s incorporated but still nice and light.
Step 4: Add the Flavorful Mix-Ins
This is where the magic happens. Fold in your freshly chopped apricots, crunchy walnuts, and sweetened coconut. Every bite of these bars will sing with the perfect balance of chewy fruit, buttery nuts, and tropical coconut texture. Spread this mixture evenly over the warm crust—doing so while the crust is still hot helps the layers bond beautifully.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your baking dish back in the oven to bake for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye out for a puffed, golden top and use a toothpick inserted in the center to check that it comes out clean. This means your bars are perfectly cooked—soft but set, rich but not overdone.
Step 6: Cool, Slice, and Dust
After baking, allow your bars to cool completely. This step solidifies the layers, making them easier to cut into neat squares. Finish by rolling or sprinkling the bars in powdered sugar for that extra touch of sweetness and a lovely presentation. Now they’re ready to enjoy, whether fresh or wrapped for later.
How to Serve Apricot Walnut Coconut Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Try sprinkling some extra chopped walnuts or toasted coconut flakes on top for added texture and a beautiful presentation. A light drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream can also elevate the serving to something special.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a warm herbal tea for an afternoon pick-me-up. They also make a wonderful companion to vanilla ice cream or a scoop of Greek yogurt for a delightful dessert combo.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming gift or party platter, arrange the bars on a pretty tray lined with parchment paper and tie small bundles with twine. You can also layer them between wax paper sheets in a reusable tin for easy sharing that looks thoughtful and festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Apricot Walnut Coconut Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They maintain their delightful texture beautifully and are just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep these bars longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Warm the bars gently in a microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or in a low oven (300 degrees F) for 5 to 10 minutes. This revives their soft, chewy texture and releases those lovely apricot aromas fresh again.
FAQs
Can I substitute dried apricots with another fruit?
Absolutely! Dried peaches, mangoes, or even cranberries can be exciting substitutes. Just ensure that you soak and chop them similarly to maintain the right texture and moisture balance in your bars.
What can I use instead of walnuts if I have a nut allergy?
You can omit the walnuts entirely or swap them for seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds to keep that satisfying crunch without nuts. For extra flavor, toasted coconut chunks also work wonderfully.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just check that your blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to keep the texture spot on.
How long do these bars stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, the bars stay fresh for about three days at room temperature. For longer storage, freezing is your best bet to keep them tasting fresh and delicious.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make these bars vegan, swap butter for a plant-based margarine or coconut oil and replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg). Adjust the baking time slightly and keep an eye on the texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing homemade treats that feel like a warm hug, and this Apricot Walnut Coconut Bars Recipe does just that. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, these bars bring together simple pantry ingredients into an unforgettable flavor experience. Give them a try and prepare to be delighted with every bite!
Print
Apricot Walnut Coconut Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightful homemade apricot bars featuring a buttery crust, a luscious apricot-nut filling, and a dusting of powdered sugar. These bars combine the tart sweetness of dried apricots with crunchy walnuts and coconut for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for snacking or serving as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Crust
- ½ cup butter (softened)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Filling
- â…” cup dried apricots
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- â…“ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts
- ½ cup sweetened flaked coconut
Topping
- 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Soften apricots: Place the dried apricots in a small saucepan and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 10 minutes until the apricots are softened. Drain well, let cool, then chop them into small pieces.
- Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and 1 cup of the all-purpose flour using an electric hand mixer or food processor until coarse crumbs form. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake the crust for 15 to 18 minutes until lightly golden around the edges.
- Prepare the filling base: While the crust bakes, beat the eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla extract together in a bowl using an electric hand mixer until smooth and well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining â…“ cup of flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually stir these dry ingredients into the egg mixture until just incorporated.
- Add mix-ins: Fold the chopped apricots, chopped walnuts, and sweetened flaked coconut into the egg and flour mixture until evenly distributed.
- Assemble and bake: Immediately spread the filling evenly over the hot crust once it comes out of the oven. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the top is puffed up, golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and finish: Allow the apricot bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into 16 bars. Remove the bars from the pan and roll or sprinkle them lightly with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
Notes
- Ensure the apricots are well drained and cooled before chopping to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
- For a nut-free version, omit walnuts and substitute with additional coconut or seeds.
- Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Optionally, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for extra warmth.
