Fruity Paradise: Homemade Apricot Jam Chocolate Fruit And Nut Bars Recipe

Sweet summer memories bloom in these delectable homemade apricot jam chocolate fruit and nut bars that blend rich cocoa with tangy stone fruit.

The combination creates a delightful harmony of textures and flavors sure to delight dessert enthusiasts.

Melted chocolate swirls through chopped nuts and bright apricot preserves, crafting an irresistible treat.

Each bite carries the warmth of handcrafted goodness and nostalgic comfort.

Layers of complex tastes meld together seamlessly in this simple yet elegant recipe.

Nutty crunch meets smooth chocolate and vibrant fruit in a perfectly balanced dessert.

You’ll fall in love with this decadent and surprisingly easy bar that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary experience.

Apricot Jam Chocolate Fruit and Nut Bars Magic

• Savor Garden-Fresh Goodness: Bursting with ripe tomatoes and zucchini, this casserole celebrates fresh seasonal vegetables with a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
• Master Quick Homemade Comfort: Simple layering technique makes this dish incredibly straightforward, perfect for home cooks seeking a satisfying meal without complex cooking skills.
• Customize Your Culinary Creation: Versatile recipe allows easy adaptations with different cheese varieties, herbs, or breadcrumb variations to match personal taste preferences.
• Crowd-Pleasing Vegetable Delight: Transforms humble vegetables into a mouthwatering dish that appeals to both veggie lovers and those typically hesitant about vegetable-based meals.

Ingredient List for Apricot Chocolate Nut Bars

• Apricots: Fresh and ripe fruits that form the primary base of the homemade jam with sweet and tangy flavor.
• Lemons: Citrus fruits that provide natural pectin and balance the sweetness of the apricots.

• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the jam and helps with preservation and thickening process.
• Lemon Juice: Adds tartness and helps the jam set by providing natural pectin.

• Water, Clean Towel, Small Plates: Essential tools for sterilizing jars, testing jam consistency, and maintaining cleanliness during the jam-making process.
• Canning Jars, Lids, Bands: Containers used for storing and preserving the homemade apricot jam safely.

Directions for Apricot Jam Nut Bars

Step 1: Clean and Prep Canning Gear

Thoroughly wash jars, lids, and bands with hot, soapy water. Rinse completely and let them air dry.

Slide 2-3 small plates into the freezer for jam testing later. If canning, set up your water bath with a rack and fill with enough water to cover jars by 2 inches.

Step 2: Prepare Fruit and Juice

Gently wash and dry apricots. Slice each fruit in half and remove the pit.

Squeeze fresh lemons to extract their tangy juice.

Step 3: Create Jam Base

• Halved apricots
• Lemon juice
• Sugar

Heat the mixture over medium temperature, stirring continuously until sugar dissolves completely.

Step 4: Boil and Thicken

Keep the jam bubbling for 25-30 minutes. Stir constantly to prevent scorching.

Skim off any foam that appears. The mixture should transform into a thick, spoon-coating consistency.

Step 5: Check Jam Readiness

Use two methods to test jam doneness:

Candy Thermometer Method: Ensure the jam reaches 220°F (104°C)

Frozen Plate Method: Drop a teaspoon of jam on a chilled plate. After one minute, press the edge – it should wrinkle and hold its shape

Step 6: Prepare Jars

Warm jars in a water bath or oven to prevent cracking when adding hot jam.

Step 7: Fill and Seal Jars

Carefully ladle hot jam into jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Tap jars to remove air bubbles.

Wipe jar rims clean with a towel. Secure lids and bands.

Step 8: Process Jam (Optional Canning)

Submerge filled jars in boiling water bath. Cover and process for 10 minutes.

Adjust time for altitude if needed.

Step 9: Cool and Store

Remove jars and let them cool for 24 hours.

Check seals by pressing lid – it should not move. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year.

Helpful Notes for Baking Nut Bars Well

• Stir constantly and use a heavy-based pan to distribute heat evenly, avoiding scorching and ensuring smooth texture.
• Use either candy thermometer at 220°F or frozen plate method to check perfect consistency without overcooking.
• Sterilize thoroughly, heat before filling to prevent cracking, and use clean tools to maintain jam's quality and safety.
• Adjust sugar levels slightly based on apricot sweetness, but keep proportions close to original recipe for proper setting.
• Follow canning instructions precisely, check seals, and store in appropriate conditions to extend jam's shelf life and prevent spoilage.

New Mix-Ins for Chocolate Apricot Nut Bars

• Low-Sugar Apricot Jam: Replace regular sugar with honey or a low-calorie sweetener like stevia for a healthier version that reduces overall sugar content.
• Spiced Apricot Variation: Add warming spices like cinnamon, cardamom, or ginger during cooking to create a more complex flavor profile with aromatic undertones.
• Vegan Friendly Option: Substitute sugar with organic coconut sugar and ensure all ingredients are plant-based, maintaining the original jam's rich texture and taste.
• Gluten-Free Preservation: Use certified gluten-free equipment and ingredients to make the jam safe for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Good Pairings for Fruit and Nut Bars

• Elevate Sweet Treat Pairing: Match the homemade apricot jam chocolate fruit and nut bars with smooth vanilla bean ice cream for a luxurious dessert experience.
• Wine and Cheese Complement: Select a crisp Riesling or late harvest white wine alongside a creamy goat cheese to balance the rich, sweet chocolate and tangy apricot flavors.
• Brew Perfect Coffee Companion: Serve with a medium-roast Colombian coffee or a nutty espresso to enhance the chocolate and fruit notes, creating a delightful afternoon indulgence.
• Morning Breakfast Boost: Enjoy these bars with a protein-rich Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of toasted almonds for a satisfying and nutritious breakfast option.

Storing Apricot Nut Bars For Fresh Flavor

• Transfer jam to an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 4 weeks. Ensure the container is clean and sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.
• Pour cooled jam into freezer-safe glass jars or plastic containers, leaving 1/2 inch of headspace for expansion. Seal securely and freeze for 6-8 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
• Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark pantry for up to 12 months. Check seals periodically and discard if any signs of spoilage appear.

FAQs

• What equipment do I need to make homemade apricot jam?

You’ll need a large stainless steel saucepan, candy thermometer (optional), frozen plates for testing, clean jars, canning tongs, and a water bath canner if you plan to preserve the jam long-term.

• Why add lemon juice to the apricot jam?

Lemon juice helps activate pectin, which helps the jam set properly, adds a bright flavor, and increases the acidity to prevent bacterial growth during preservation.

• How can I tell if my jam has reached the right consistency?

Use two methods: either check with a candy thermometer (220°F/104°C) or use the frozen plate test by placing a small amount of jam on a cold plate and seeing if it wrinkles when you push it with your finger.

• Is it necessary to can the jam?

Homemade Apricot Jam Chocolate Fruit And Nut Bars Recipe

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• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

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Description

Irresistible homemade apricot jam chocolate fruit and nut bars blend sweet and nutty flavors in a delightful Mediterranean-inspired treat. Rich chocolate and tangy apricot create a perfect harmony that will satisfy cravings and bring joy to dessert lovers.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruit:

• 4.8 pounds (2.2 kilograms) apricots
• 1/3 cup lemon juice

Sugar:

• 3.3 pounds (1.5 kilograms) sugar

Additional Ingredients:

• No additional ingredients listed in the original recipe

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Instructions

1. Thoroughly wash and dry glass jars, lids, and bands in hot, soapy water to sterilize.
2. Chill 2-3 small plates in the freezer for jam consistency testing later.
3. Prepare water bath canner by adding rack and filling with water deep enough to cover jars by 2 inches.
4. Carefully slice apricots in half, removing pits, and extract fresh lemon juice.
5. Combine prepared apricots, lemon juice, and sugar in a heavy stainless steel saucepan over medium heat.
6. Stir mixture constantly until sugar dissolves and bring to a rolling boil, approximately 5-7 minutes.
7. Continue boiling for 25-30 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent scorching and skimming off foam.
8. Check jam consistency using candy thermometer – target temperature is 220°F (104°C).
9. Alternatively, test jam by placing a small amount on frozen plate; if it wrinkles when touched, it’s ready.
10. Warm jars in canner or oven to prevent thermal shock when adding hot jam.
11. Carefully ladle hot jam into prepared jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
12. Remove air bubbles by gently tapping jars and wipe rim edges clean.
13. Seal jars with lids, tightening bands until fingertip-tight.
14. Submerge sealed jars in boiling water bath, ensuring 1 inch water coverage.
15. Process jars for 10 minutes, adjusting time for altitude if necessary.
16. Allow jars to rest in canner for 5 minutes after processing.
17. Transfer jars to towel and let cool completely for 24 hours.
18. Verify seal by pressing lid – it should not move up or down.
19. Store unsealed jars in refrigerator or reprocess immediately.
20. Refrigerate opened jam and consume within one month.

Notes

• Choose ripe, slightly soft apricots for maximum flavor and natural sweetness, ensuring your jam has a rich, deep taste.
• Skim foam consistently during cooking to maintain a clear, glossy jam texture and prevent cloudiness.
• Use a wide, heavy-bottomed pan to distribute heat evenly and prevent burning, helping the jam cook smoothly and consistently.
• Try adding spices like cinnamon or cardamom for a unique twist on traditional apricot jam, enhancing its complexity and depth of flavor.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 177
• Sugar: 42 g
• Sodium: 0 mg
• Fat: 0 g
• Saturated Fat: 0 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 46 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg