How can I keep apricot jam bars soft and chewy?

To achieve soft and chewy apricot jam bars, increase the butter amount compared to standard recipes—using about double helps. The extra butter adds moisture and richness, preventing the bars from becoming dry or crumbly. Baking at the right temperature, around 350°F, and not overbaking also helps maintain that texture.

Can I replace apricot jam with other fruit jams in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute apricot jam with other fruit jams like raspberry, strawberry, or blackberry. Each will give the bars a different flavor, but the baking time and method remain the same. Choose a jam with a medium thickness for best results to prevent sogginess.

What’s the best way to make the crumb topping for apricot jam bars?

To create a crumbly topping, add extra flour—typically one to two tablespoons—to the portion of dough reserved for the topping. This makes it easier to crumble by hand over the jam layer. Make sure to spread the crumbs evenly and avoid pressing them down to keep the texture light.

How should I store apricot jam bars to keep them fresh?

Store apricot jam bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. Allow refrigerated bars to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Why do my apricot jam bars break apart when I cut them?

Bars often break if cut while warm because the filling and crumb topping haven’t set. To avoid this, chill the bars in the refrigerator for one to two hours before cutting. This firms up the jam and crumb layers, giving cleaner slices and preventing crumbling.

Apricot Jam Bars Recipe with Buttery Crust Everyone Loves

Description

🍑 Indulge in these luscious apricot jam bars, offering a perfect balance of buttery crust and fruity goodness.
🧡 A quick and easy dessert, these bars are a delightful treat for any occasion and loved by all!

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 and 3/4 cups (355g) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (65g) additional flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup (340g) apricot jam or preserves
Optional: 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or rolled oats
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (5-7 minutes).
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 and 3/4 cups flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until the dough is sticky.
6. Divide the dough: use 2/3 for the base crust, and 1/3 for topping.
7. Press the larger portion evenly into the prepared pan.
8. Spread apricot jam evenly over the crust.
9. Add 1/2 cup additional flour to the smaller dough portion, mix until crumbly, and fold in toppings if using.
10. Crumble the topping evenly over the jam layer.
11. Bake for 25-35 minutes until the top is light golden brown.
12. Cool completely in the pan before removing and slicing into 12 bars.
13. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.

Notes

🛑 Doubling butter enhances texture—consider experimenting with this!
🍯 Use any fruit preserves to customize flavor.
🌿 Handle topping with lightly floured fingers to prevent sticking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 30-40 minutes
Cook Time: 25-35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 290
Sugar: 19g
Sodium: 80mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Apricot, Jam Bars, Buttery Crust, Easy Dessert