Delicious Apricot Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Looking for a wholesome and satisfying dessert that combines the goodness of oats and the natural sweetness of apricots? Apricot Oatmeal Crumble Bars are the perfect treat. These bars combine a buttery oat crumble with a sweet apricot filling to create a dessert that’s as delicious as it is easy to make. Whether you’re using fresh apricots, dried apricots, or even canned apricots, this dessert is sure to become a new favorite.

These apricot oatmeal crumble bars are great for a variety of occasions. They make an excellent snack, a healthy dessert, or even a grab-and-go breakfast. If you’re wondering what to do with apricots, this recipe is a fantastic way to make the most of these delicious fruits, and it’s easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Let’s dive into how to make these apricot oatmeal crumble bars and why they should be your go-to dessert for any occasion.

Save

Why Apricot Oatmeal Crumble Bars Are Perfect for Every Occasion

Apricot oatmeal crumble bars are not only packed with flavor but are also a healthy dessert option. The oats provide fiber, while the apricots add a natural sweetness and a boost of vitamins. The crumble topping is perfectly buttery and slightly sweet, giving the bars a satisfying texture that makes them perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing an afternoon snack, or just looking for a healthier dessert, these bars are the answer. They are easy to make and have a great balance of sweetness and texture. If you’re looking for desserts with apricots or apricot recipes healthy, this recipe is exactly what you need.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Apricot Oatmeal Crumble Bars

To make these delicious apricot oatmeal crumble bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Apricot Filling:

• 2 cups fresh apricots, pitted and chopped (or 1 1/2 cups dried apricots, soaked in warm water for 10-15 minutes and chopped)
• 1/4 cup sugar (you can adjust for sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)

For the Oatmeal Crumble:

• 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup flour (whole wheat or all-purpose)
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes

These ingredients come together to create a layered dessert that has a sweet apricot filling wrapped in a buttery, oat-based crumble topping. You can also use canned apricots if fresh or dried apricots are unavailable.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Apricot Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Making apricot oatmeal crumble bars is simple and only takes a few steps. Here’s how to prepare them:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray.

2. Prepare the Apricot Filling:

In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped apricots, sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the apricots soften and the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Once it has thickened, remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Save

3. Make the Oatmeal Crumble:

In a separate bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Save

4. Assemble the Bars:

Press half of the oatmeal crumble mixture into the prepared baking dish to form a base. Pour the apricot filling evenly over the crumble layer. Sprinkle the remaining crumble mixture over the top of the apricots.

5. Bake:

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

6. Cool and Slice:

Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares. This will help the filling set and make the bars easier to slice.

These apricot oatmeal crumble bars are perfect for a snack, breakfast, or even dessert. The combination of sweet apricots and the crunchy oatmeal crumble topping is a delightful treat for any occasion.

Save

How to Customize Your Apricot Oatmeal Crumble Bars

This easy apricot jam recipe is highly customizable, and here are a few ideas for making these bars your own:

• Add nuts: You can add chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans to the crumble mixture for extra crunch and flavor.
• Make it chocolatey: Add chocolate chips or cocoa powder to the crumble for a chocolate apricot oatmeal crumble bar.
• Use other fruits: If apricots are out of season, you can use peaches, plums, or even berries for a different twist.
• Make it sugar-free: If you’re looking for a healthier version, swap the sugar for a sugar substitute like honey or maple syrup.

This recipe is flexible, and you can experiment with different ingredients based on what you have on hand. If you’re interested in dried apricots recipes, these bars are also a great way to use them!

Serving Suggestions for Apricot Oatmeal Crumble Bars

These apricot oatmeal crumble bars are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving suggestions to enhance the experience:

• Serve with whipped cream: Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Pair with a hot drink: Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon snack.
• With ice cream: A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream makes a wonderful pairing with these bars for a sweet treat.

For a special twist, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top of the bars for a rich, sweet addition.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Apricot Oatmeal Crumble Bars

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:

• In the fridge: Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Apricot Oatmeal Crumble Bars

To ensure your apricot oatmeal crumble bars turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overbaking the crumble topping: Be careful not to overbake the bars, as this can make the crumble topping too hard. Keep an eye on them, and once golden brown, remove them from the oven.
• Not cooling the bars: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them. This will help the apricot filling set and prevent the bars from falling apart.
• Using too much moisture: If your apricots release too much liquid, you can simmer the filling a little longer to thicken it up before baking.

Save

FAQs About Apricot Oatmeal Crumble Bars

Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried?
Yes, fresh apricots can be used. Just chop them and cook the filling as directed. You may need to reduce the amount of sugar slightly since fresh apricots are typically sweeter than dried ones.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. They also freeze well for up to 2 months.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and the recipe will be gluten-free.

Final Thoughts on Apricot Oatmeal Crumble Bars

These apricot oatmeal crumble bars are a simple yet delicious treat that combines the sweetness of apricots with the heartiness of oats. Whether you’re using fresh or dried apricots, this recipe is a great way to enjoy these fruits in a healthy and satisfying dessert. With minimal ingredients and easy instructions, you can create a delicious treat that everyone will love.

Give this recipe a try today, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of apricots in a homemade crumble bar. Don’t forget to share, save, and subscribe for more easy, delicious recipes!

Print