If you’re on the lookout for a delightful treat that combines chewy, nutty, and sweet flavors in every bite, then you absolutely must try this Apricot Coconut Pecan Bars Recipe. These bars are a perfect balance of naturally sweet dried apricots, crunchy pecans, and rich shredded coconut, all held together by a luscious drizzle of honey and coconut oil. They’re quick to whip up, wonderfully portable, and a fantastic snack that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Trust me, once you try these bars, they’ll become your go-to for breakfast on the run or a cozy afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these scrumptious bars. Each component serves a special purpose, from adding texture and depth to bringing natural sweetness and a luscious creaminess that make these bars irresistible.
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped: Offers a chewy, fruity sweetness that’s the star flavor of the bars.
- 1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened: Adds a tropical flair and a pleasantly fibrous texture.
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped: Provides crunch and warm, buttery nutty notes.
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup: Acts as a natural sweetener and binds everything together beautifully.
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted: Brings moisture and richness while helping the bars set perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a subtle aromatic touch.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and amplifies the overall flavor.
How to Make Apricot Coconut Pecan Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This makes it so easy to lift the bars out once baked, ensuring clean edges and fuss-free serving.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, mix the chopped dried apricots, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans together. This trio forms the hearty, flavorful base of the bars, each bite bursting with delightful texture and brightness.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Mixture
Gently melt the coconut oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, take it off the heat and stir in the honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This warm, fragrant mixture will coat the dry ingredients and help everything bind beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet coconut oil mixture over the bowl of dry ingredients. Mix thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated. This step is key to ensuring your bars hold together well without being overly sticky.
Step 5: Transfer and Press Into Pan
Move the mixture into your prepared pan and use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press it down firmly. Making an even, compact layer will give your bars a satisfying texture and prevent crumbling once baked.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown. The smell at this stage is absolutely heavenly, hinting at the sweet promise inside.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This cooling period lets them firm up, making slicing clean squares a breeze and ensuring they hold their shape beautifully.
How to Serve Apricot Coconut Pecan Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or drizzle some dark chocolate over the top for an extra touch of elegance. A few toasted coconut flakes can also add a lovely finishing crunch.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a fresh cup of your favorite tea or coffee for a cozy snack break. They also work wonderfully alongside creamy yogurt or fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast or brunch spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bars into smaller bite-sized pieces for a beautiful dessert platter or pack them individually wrapped in parchment paper for grab-and-go snacks. You could even layer them with soft cream cheese frosting for a decadent twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Their texture and flavor stay fresh, making them perfectly ready when you crave a sweet treat throughout the week.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually or in a single layer in foil and freezer-safe bags for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy a tasty, homemade snack instantly.
Reheating
If you prefer your bars a little warm, pop them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or warm in a low oven (about 300°F) for a few minutes. This brings back that fresh-baked softness and enhances the coconut aroma.
FAQs
Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried?
Fresh apricots have more moisture and won’t give the same chewy texture as dried ones, so for the best results stick to dried apricots in this bars recipe.
Is it possible to substitute pecans with another nut?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews would all work well and offer their own unique crunch and flavor profiles.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, just swap honey for maple syrup to keep the bars completely plant-based and delicious.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
Look for golden brown edges and a slightly firm center. The aroma will also tell you it’s time to pull them out of the oven.
Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg?
Definitely! A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg complements the apricot and pecans beautifully and adds a warm depth of flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s such comfort and joy in making this Apricot Coconut Pecan Bars Recipe—it’s truly a recipe that feels like a warm hug in bar form. Whether you’re making them for a quick breakfast, a midday snack, or a sweet gift for friends, these bars are a winning choice every time. I can’t wait for you to try them and discover your own favorite way to enjoy their delicious, wholesome goodness.
Print
Apricot Coconut Pecan Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and wholesome Apricot Coconut Pecan Bars that combine the natural sweetness of dried apricots, the tropical taste of shredded coconut, and the crunch of pecans. These bars are lightly sweetened with honey or maple syrup, bound together with melted coconut oil, and baked to golden perfection for a healthy and satisfying snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to make removal easier.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped apricots, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans.
- Melt Coconut Oil and Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil over low heat. Once melted, remove from the heat and stir in the honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Press Mixture into Pan: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down firmly to create an even layer.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
Notes
- For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars hold together well.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds based on preference.
