Dried apricots are a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. They add natural sweetness, chewiness, and a burst of flavor to a variety of recipes. From energy bites and granola bars to main courses and desserts, dried apricots are a great addition to any meal. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious ways to use dried apricots in your cooking and baking.
Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a savory side dish, there’s an apricot recipe here that’s sure to please. From classic combinations like chicken and apricots to innovative creations like apricot-stuffed turkey breast, we’ll dive into the world of dried apricots and discover all the ways they can elevate your cooking.
Apricot and Almond Energy Bites
These bite-sized treats are packed with nutritious ingredients like apricots, almonds, and oats to keep you energized throughout the day. With only 5 minutes of prep time, these no-bake energy balls are perfect for a quick snack or post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the oats, chopped apricots, and sliced almonds.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the honey and chia seeds until well combined.
3. Add the honey-chia mixture to the oat mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into 6-8 energy balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None – these no-bake bites are ready in just 5 minutes!
Moroccan Chicken with Dried Apricots
Moroccan Chicken with Dried Apricots: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the warmth of North African spices with the sweetness of dried apricots, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and add chopped apricots, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Dried Apricot and Walnut Bread
This sweet bread combines the natural sweetness of dried apricots with the earthy flavor of walnuts, perfect for a cozy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Beat in egg and stir in chopped apricots and walnuts.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Apricot Glazed Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your pork tenderloin game with this flavorful apricot glaze recipe! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a sweet and sticky sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 1/4 cup apricot preserves
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apricot preserves, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Place the pork tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the apricot glaze evenly over the pork tenderloin.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spiced Apricot Chutney
A sweet and spicy preserve perfect for topping naan bread, yogurt, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine chopped apricots, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chutney has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Season with salt to taste.
4. Transfer the chutney to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apricot and Coconut Granola Bars
These chewy granola bars are infused with the sweetness of apricots and the creaminess of coconut, making them a perfect snack for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped dried apricots
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, apricots, coconut, and almonds.
3. In a separate bowl, combine honey, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Pour over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apricot Stuffed Turkey Breast
Elevate your turkey game with this sweet and savory apricot-stuffed breast recipe, perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped apricots, honey, and Dijon mustard.
3. Lay the turkey breast flat and make a horizontal incision in the center to create a pocket. Stuff the apricot mixture inside.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the turkey, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Place the stuffed turkey on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Apricot and Ginger Smoothie
Recharge with a refreshing blend of sweet apricots and spicy ginger. This smoothie is perfect for a post-workout snack or a healthy breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe apricot, peeled and pitted
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup almond milk
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the apricot, ginger, Greek yogurt, and honey to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level as needed.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes and blend until frosty.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Apricot and Brie Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this sweet and savory combination of caramelized apricots, creamy brie, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/4 cup of caramelized apricots (see note)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 wheel of brie cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with crumbled brie cheese, caramelized apricots, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Apricot and Pistachio Biscotti
These Italian-inspired cookies are perfect for dipping in coffee or tea, or simply enjoying on their own. The combination of chewy apricots and crunchy pistachios creates a delightful texture contrast.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped dried apricots
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, apricots, and pistachios. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Divide dough into two parts. Shape each part into a log about 12 inches long.
5. Place logs on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2-inch space between them.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely. Slice into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apricot and Rosemary Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the flavors of apricots, rosemary, and chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Stuff the cavity with chopped apricots.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Apricot and Dark Chocolate Truffles
These bite-sized truffles combine the sweetness of dark chocolate with the tanginess of apricots, creating a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Soak the apricots in hot water for at least 30 minutes, or until they rehydrate and become soft.
2. In a blender or food processor, blend the apricots with the heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Fold the apricot mixture into the melted chocolate until well combined.
5. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow it to set.
6. Roll the truffle mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None required; preparation time: approximately 30 minutes.
Apricot and Quinoa Salad
This refreshing salad combines the natural sweetness of apricots with the nutty flavor of quinoa, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup diced dried apricots
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, parsley, apricots, and feta cheese (if using).
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apricot and Cardamom Oatmeal
Start your day with a flavorful and aromatic bowl of oatmeal, infused with the sweetness of apricots and the warmth of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (or a combination)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/2 cup diced dried apricots
– Pinch of salt
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, ground cardamom, and salt. Stir gently to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and have a creamy consistency.
4. If using honey or maple syrup, stir it in during the last minute of cooking.
5. Fold in the diced apricots and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Apricot and Thyme Glazed Ham
Apricot and Thyme Glazed Ham Recipe
A sweet and savory combination of apricots, thyme, and ham, this glaze adds a new dimension to the classic holiday dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup apricot preserves
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, apricot preserves, honey, Dijon mustard, and chopped thyme. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep. Place the ham in a roasting pan or a large Dutch oven.
- Baste the ham with the glaze every 20-30 minutes during cooking time. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C). Let rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Apricot and Hazelnut Tart
A flavorful and visually appealing tart that combines the sweetness of apricots with the nutty richness of hazelnuts, perfect for a dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup apricots, pitted and sliced
– 1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Arrange apricot slices and hazelnuts on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
5. Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Drizzle with honey and dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apricot and Cinnamon Rice Pudding
A comforting dessert that combines the sweetness of apricots with the warmth of cinnamon, perfect for a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water or milk (or a combination)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water or milk, butter, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Stir in the chopped apricots and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they’re heated through.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Apricot and Goat Cheese Crostini
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet elegant appetizer that combines the sweetness of apricots with the tanginess of goat cheese. Perfect for a quick gathering or a fancy soiree, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 ripe apricot, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the diced apricot and honey.
4. Spread a layer of goat cheese on each toasted baguette slice, followed by a spoonful of the apricot mixture.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including toasting time)
Summary
Get creative with dried apricots in these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From sweet treats like Apricot and Coconut Granola Bars and Apricot and Dark Chocolate Truffles, to savory dishes such as Moroccan Chicken with Dried Apricots and Apricot Stuffed Turkey Breast, there’s something for everyone. Try adding dried apricots to your morning oatmeal with Apricot and Cardamom Oatmeal or make a delicious Apricot Glazed Pork Tenderloin for dinner. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, these recipes showcase the versatility of dried apricots.
