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Apricot delight brings back waves of childhood nostalgia with every sweet, chewy bite. This healthier reinvention of the classic treat maintains all the addictive qualities of the original but swaps refined sugar for the natural sweetness of dried apricots. The combination of two different types of dried apricots creates the perfect balance of soft sweetness and tangy chewiness, while almonds add protein and a subtle crunch. Rolled in coconut and sliced into perfect little rounds, these treats are ideal for lunchboxes, afternoon pick-me-ups, or anytime you need a sweet bite without the sugar crash.
Growing up, apricot delight held a special place in my heart—and my lunchbox. I remember the excitement of discovering those sweet, coconut-dusted squares amid my sandwich and fruit. My sister and I would often devour an entire bag before my mother could even store it in the pantry. Years later, craving that familiar taste but wanting something gentler on my blood sugar, I set out to create this healthier version that still delivers all the nostalgic joy of the original.
Natural Sweet Ingredients
- Whole dried apricots: Provide the base sweetness and soft texture; look for the plumper, lighter-colored variety
- Halved dried apricots: Add tang and a delightful chewiness; these are typically darker and more concentrated in flavor
- Raw almonds: Contribute healthy fats, protein, and a subtle crunch that balances the fruit's softness
- Desiccated coconut: Creates that classic flavor profile both inside and as the outer coating
- Maple syrup: Just a teaspoon enhances the natural sweetness without overpowering
The key to this recipe's success lies in using two different types of apricots. The whole dried apricots create a sweet, smooth base, while the halved dried apricots add bursts of tangier flavor and a more substantial chew. Together, they create a complex flavor and texture that far exceeds what either could achieve alone. I recommend seeking out unsulfured apricots for their deeper flavor and nutritional benefits.
Process The Base
In a food processor, combine the whole dried apricots with coconut oil, maple syrup, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla powder. Process for about three minutes until the apricots break down into a sticky, uniform mixture. This creates your sweet, smooth base that will hold everything together.
Add Texture Elements
Add the almonds and 60g of desiccated coconut to the processor. Pulse for another minute until the almonds are chopped but still retain some texture. You want them small enough to incorporate well but large enough to provide occasional bursts of nutty crunch.
Incorporate The Chewy Bits
Transfer the mixture to a clean work surface and knead in the roughly chopped halved apricots by hand. This manual incorporation ensures the chewier apricot pieces remain intact, creating delightful texture variations throughout each bite.
Shape And Roll
Form the mixture into a log approximately 40cm long and 4cm in diameter, working to create an even shape throughout. Roll the log in the remaining desiccated coconut, ensuring even coverage on all sides. The coconut coating provides both flavor and the practical benefit of preventing stickiness.
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Chill For Sliceability
Wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight. This crucial chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up, making clean slicing possible. Patience here results in picture-perfect rounds.
Slice And Serve
Once thoroughly chilled, use a sharp knife to cut the log into approximately 1cm slices. Wipe the knife between cuts for the cleanest edges. These bite-sized rounds are perfect for snacking, packing, or sharing.
My children now enjoy these apricot delights in their lunchboxes, creating their own nostalgic memories. There's something particularly satisfying about watching them experience the same joy I felt as a child, but knowing they're enjoying a more nutritious version. The circle of lunchbox treats continues, just with a healthier twist!
Serving Suggestions
Serve these apricot delights as an afternoon pick-me-up alongside a cup of tea for a perfect sweet pause in your day. Pack them in lunchboxes for a treat that provides sustained energy rather than a sugar spike and crash. For a delightful dessert plate, serve a few slices alongside a small scoop of vanilla yogurt for dipping. These treats also make wonderful homemade gifts—package them in a mason jar with a ribbon for a thoughtful hostess present.
Creative Variations
- Transform this basic recipe: Substitute different dried fruits like figs or dates for some of the apricots.
- Add variety with different nuts: Such as pistachios for their beautiful green color and complementary flavor.
- Create a spiced version: By increasing the cinnamon and adding cardamom and nutmeg.
- For a more indulgent treat: Dip half of each slice in dark chocolate after cutting.
- Make a tropical version: By using dried mango and pineapple with macadamia nuts and a hint of lime zest.
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Storage Solutions
Store these apricot delights in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they'll keep beautifully for up to two weeks. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. For longer storage, these treats freeze exceptionally well—place in a freezer-safe container with parchment between layers for up to three months. They thaw quickly at room temperature, making them easy to enjoy anytime a craving strikes. You can also freeze the unsliced log, then partially thaw and slice as needed for always-fresh treats.
I've found that these apricot delights represent the perfect balance between nostalgia and nutrition—they honor childhood memories while respecting adult nutritional awareness. There's something deeply satisfying about recreating a beloved treat from my past in a way that aligns with my present values. These little bites of sunshine allow me to indulge in a sweet memory without compromise, proving that sometimes you really can improve on a classic.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why do I need two different types of dried apricots?
- The two varieties serve different purposes: whole dried apricots (the plumper, juicier kind) provide sweetness and a soft base, while halved dried apricots (usually darker and chewier) add tanginess and texture contrast. Together, they create a more complex and interesting flavor and consistency than using just one type.
- → Can I make this without a food processor?
- While a food processor makes this recipe much easier, you could try using a high-powered blender instead. You'll need to work in smaller batches and may need to add a bit more coconut oil to help it blend. Alternatively, you could finely chop everything by hand, but it would be very time-consuming and difficult to achieve the right consistency.
- → How long do these Apricot Delight slices last?
- When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these slices will keep well for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months - just wrap the log tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing, then thaw in the refrigerator before slicing.
- → Can I substitute the almonds for another nut?
- Yes, you can easily swap the almonds for other nuts like pistachios, cashews, or walnuts. Each will give a slightly different flavor profile, but all work well with the apricot and coconut. For a nut-free version, you could try using sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead.
- → What can I use instead of coconut oil?
- If you don't have coconut oil or prefer not to use it, you can substitute with a small amount of neutral vegetable oil, a nut butter like almond butter, or even a touch more maple syrup. The purpose of the oil is primarily to help bind the ingredients, so you just need something slightly sticky or moist.