If you are craving a treat that beautifully balances chewy, nutty, and sweet flavors, this Apricot Coconut Pecan Bars Recipe is a fantastic go-to. These bars bring together the natural sweetness of dried apricots, the tropical richness of shredded coconut, and the satisfying crunch of pecans in a wholesome yet decadent bite. Whether you’re looking for a delicious afternoon snack, a grab-and-go breakfast, or a delightful dessert to impress friends, this recipe is as simple as it is irresistible, promising vibrant texture and flavor in every square.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Apricot Coconut Pecan Bars Recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each element plays a key role, from the chewy apricots adding fruity depth to the toasted coconut bringing a luscious golden crunch, while pecans offer a buttery richness that completes the harmony.
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped: Provides natural sweetness and a chewy texture that’s simply delightful.
- 1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened: Adds a tropical flavor and a light, crispy mouthfeel.
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped: Introduces a rich, nutty crunch that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup: Acts as the natural sweetener and sticky binder for all ingredients.
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted: Brings moisture and a subtle coconut aroma while helping the bars hold together.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with warm, fragrant notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch to elevate and balance the sweetness while intensifying the nuts and fruit.
How to Make Apricot Coconut Pecan Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper ensures the bars won’t stick and makes for easy removal later. This simple prep step sets you up for perfectly shaped, hassle-free bars.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped dried apricots, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. This trio is the heart of the Apricot Coconut Pecan Bars Recipe—each bite bursting with texture and bursts of fruity nuttiness.
Step 3: Melt and Mix the Wet Ingredients
Gently melt the coconut oil over low heat in a small saucepan. Once liquid and warm, remove from heat and whisk in your honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until everything is perfectly combined. This rich, sticky mix is the glue that brings your bars together.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients, making sure to stir thoroughly so every bit of apricot, coconut, and pecan is evenly coated. This ensures each bar will have that luscious sweet and nutty flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Press and Bake
Transfer your mixture into the prepared pan and press it down firmly to create an even layer. This step is crucial for bars that hold together well and bake evenly. Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Cut
Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Patience here pays off, as cooling helps the bars set perfectly, making them easier to slice into neat squares that won’t crumble.
How to Serve Apricot Coconut Pecan Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of flair, sprinkle a few toasted coconut flakes or chopped pecans on top once cooled. A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate also pairs wonderfully, adding a hint of indulgence without overpowering the natural sweetness.
Side Dishes
These bars shine on their own but pair beautifully with creamy yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. For breakfast, enjoy them alongside fresh fruit or a hot cup of your favorite coffee or tea.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the bars into bite-sized pieces for a crowd-pleasing snack platter. Layer them between parchment paper in a decorative tin as a gift, or arrange them beautifully on a wooden board surrounded by nuts and dried apricots to invite guests to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Apricot Coconut Pecan Bars in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Keeping them sealed well preserves their chewy, moist texture and keeps the nuts crisp.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these bars longer, freeze them! Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to 3 months and can be thawed easily overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
Reheating
Reheat bars briefly in a warm oven or microwave to revive that fresh-baked softness. Just a few seconds will do—this is especially lovely if you enjoy them warm with a spoonful of nut butter or yogurt on the side.
FAQs
Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even cashews work beautifully as substitutes. Just make sure to chop them to a similar size for even texture and bake time.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply choose maple syrup instead of honey and ensure your vanilla extract is vegan-friendly. The rest of the ingredients are naturally plant-based and wholesome.
How should I store these bars if I want them crunchy?
To keep them crunchier, store the bars in an airtight container with a desiccant packet or in a cool, dry place. Over time, moisture can soften them, so enjoying them fresh is best for maximum crispness.
Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried?
Fresh apricots have a higher moisture content, which could affect the texture and baking time. For best results, stick with dried apricots or consider dehydrating fresh apricots first.
What can I do to make the bars sweeter?
If you prefer your bars sweeter, raise the amount of honey or maple syrup slightly by a tablespoon or two, but be careful not to add too much or the bars may become too sticky.
Final Thoughts
Making this Apricot Coconut Pecan Bars Recipe is like unlocking a little bit of sunshine in your day, thanks to its vibrant flavors and textures. I encourage you to try these bars—they are easy to make, wonderfully wholesome, and perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself. Happy baking and even happier snacking!
Print
Apricot Coconut Pecan Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 9 bars
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and wholesome Apricot Coconut Pecan Bars combining dried apricots, shredded coconut, and pecans, sweetened naturally with honey or maple syrup and baked to golden perfection. These bars are perfect for a nutritious snack or dessert, offering a delightful blend of chewy and crunchy textures with tropical flavors.
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 the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, mix the chopped dried apricots, unsweetened shredded coconut, and chopped pecans until evenly combined.
- Prepare wet mixture: Heat the coconut oil in a small saucepan over low heat until melted. Remove from heat and stir in the honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until well blended.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir thoroughly to coat all the dry ingredients evenly with the wet mixture.
- Press mixture into pan: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly and evenly to create a compact layer.
- Bake the bars: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges turn a nice golden brown color.
- Cool and cut: Allow the baked bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares for serving.
Notes
- Ensure the bars cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- For a vegan option, use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
