Giada De Laurentiis Apricot Oat Bars

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This is one of the most Giada popular recipes, these Apricot oat bars are one of the many personal favorites that I love to enjoy with hot coffee in the morning.

Not only these bars Giada has a variety of delicious dessert recipes that you can enjoy at any time like Chocolate Peanut Butter Blondies and Chocolate Amaretti Cookies, both are my favorite.

Why This Recipe Works

If you love a good dessert that’s both sweet and satisfying, these apricot oat bars are a must-try. They bring together the tangy flavor of apricot jam with the hearty texture of oats, creating a treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Not only are these bars easy to make, but they also offer a homemade feel that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or just enjoying them with your morning coffee, they’re sure to impress.

Plus, this recipe is versatile. You can easily switch up the nuts or even the fruit to suit your taste, making it a go-to for any time of year. If you’ve been searching for a dessert that’s both delicious and simple, these apricot oat bars are exactly what you need!

Ingredients

Apricot Jam: This is the sweet, tangy heart of the recipe. It brings all the flavors together and keeps the bars moist and delicious.
Dried Apricots: Chopped dried apricots add an extra layer of chewy texture and boost that rich apricot flavor even more.
Brown Sugar: Adds a deep sweetness to the crust, balancing the tartness of the apricot and giving the bars a nice, caramelized edge.
Oats: Old-fashioned oats bring a wholesome, hearty texture that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the apricots and the crunch of the walnuts.
Walnuts: Coarsely chopped walnuts add a satisfying crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that complements the sweet apricot filling.
Butter: Melted butter binds everything together, making the crust perfectly buttery and crumbly.
Vanilla Extract: A touch of pure vanilla extract rounds out the flavors, adding warmth and depth to every bite.

Note: The full list of ingredients can be found in the recipe card below.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step One – Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare your baking dish by lining it with parchment paper and a light spray of cooking oil.

Step Two – Mix the apricot jam with chopped dried apricots and set aside.

Step Three – Combine the dry ingredients with oats and walnuts, then stir in melted butter, egg, and vanilla until well-mixed.

Step Four – Press half the crust into the pan, spread the apricot filling over it, top with the remaining crust, and bake for 30-35 minutes. Let it cool before cutting into bars.

How to Serve Apricot Oat Bars

One of the best ways to serve Giada’s apricot oat bars is as a delightful dessert alongside a cup of hot coffee or tea. The sweet and tangy apricot filling pairs wonderfully with a warm beverage.
These bars also make a great addition to a brunch spread. Serve them with fresh fruit and yogurt for a balanced and satisfying meal.
If you’re hosting a gathering, consider placing the bars on a dessert platter with other bite-sized treats like cookies or mini pastries. They’re easy to grab and enjoy, making them perfect for parties.
For a festive touch during the holidays, dust the top of the bars with powdered sugar. This adds a pretty finish and a hint of extra sweetness.
You can also enjoy these bars as an afternoon snack. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a refreshing iced tea for a satisfying treat.

Recipe FAQs and Variations

What can I use instead of apricot jam?

If you don’t have apricot jam, you can substitute it with peach or raspberry jam. They both provide a similar sweet and tangy flavor that works well in this recipe.

How should I store leftover apricot oat bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer them chilled, you can refrigerate them, but be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving.

Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely. You can substitute the walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Each will add its own unique flavor and texture to the bars.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and gluten-free oats. The texture might be slightly different, but they will still be delicious.

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