Packed with wholesome ingredients and irresistible flavor, these Crunchy Oat Apricot Bars are the perfect balance of chewy and crisp. Featuring a buttery oat crumble base and a luscious honey-sweetened apricot filling, these bars are as satisfying as they are simple to make. A sprinkle of reserved oat topping adds an extra layer of crunch that pairs beautifully with the fruity center. Ready in just 45 minutes, this crowd-pleasing dessert doubles as an energizing snack or a sweet addition to a brunch spread. Ideal for meal prep, they store well for days, making them a go-to treat for busy weeks. With keywords like "apricot bars," "oatmeal recipes," and "easy dessert bars," this recipe promises to be a family favorite!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix well to combine.
Pour the melted butter and vanilla extract into the dry mixture and stir until evenly combined into a crumbly texture.
Reserve 1 cup of the oat mixture for topping. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the prepared baking pan to form an even base.
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped dried apricots, honey, and water. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apricots are softened and the mixture thickens slightly.
Spread the apricot filling evenly over the oat base in the pan.
Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture over the apricot layer, pressing gently to adhere.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and firm.
Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper overhang.
Cut into 12 even bars and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Calories |
4416 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 206.2 g | 264% | |
| Saturated Fat | 123.8 g | 619% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 517 mg | 172% | |
| Sodium | 1704 mg | 74% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 624.9 g | 227% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 30.9 g | 110% | |
| Total Sugars | 364.1 g | ||
| Protein | 44.8 g | 90% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 359 mg | 28% | |
| Iron | 17.2 mg | 96% | |
| Potassium | 2867 mg | 61% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.