Glazed Apricots

Poaching dried apricots in syrup creates deliciously sweet and plump Glazed Apricots. These treats are perfect for various occasions, whether you want to impress guests at a dinner party or enjoy a simple snack at home. Their unique blend of flavors and versatility make them an excellent addition to desserts, yogurt, or even a charcuterie board.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can create these delightful Glazed Apricots at home.
• Versatile Usage: Enjoy them as a topping for yogurt, in desserts, or simply as a snack.
• Natural Sweetness: The combination of honey and sugar enhances the natural flavor of the apricots without overpowering them.
• Long Shelf Life: Store them in the fridge for up to two weeks, making them a convenient treat to have on hand.
• Healthy Indulgence: Packed with nutrients and low in fat, they offer a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Glazed Apricots, having the right tools makes the process smoother. Here are the essential tools you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• saucepan
• wooden spoon
• measuring cups
• sanitized airtight container

Importance of Each Tool

• saucepan: A good-quality saucepan ensures even cooking and prevents burning the syrup while dissolving the sugar.
• wooden spoon: This tool is gentle on your cookware and helps mix ingredients without scratching surfaces.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Glazed Apricots:

For the Syrup

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 cup honey (or more sugar)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Apricots

• 2 cups dried pitted apricots (400g / 14 ounces)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Glazed Apricots

Step 1: Prepare the Syrup

Add the water, sugar, honey, and lemon juice to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 2: Add the Apricots

Stir in the dried apricots. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 25 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally for even coating.

Step 3: Add Flavoring

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the apricots cool down in the syrup until they reach room temperature.

Step 4: Store Your Treats

Transfer your glazed apricots into a sanitized airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, ready for whenever you crave something sweet!

How to Serve Glazed Apricots

Glazed Apricots are a versatile treat that can elevate many dishes and snacks. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon, these sweet, poached apricots will delight your taste buds.

With Yogurt

• Creamy Delight: Serve warm or chilled Glazed Apricots over a bowl of creamy yogurt for a refreshing snack. The sweetness of the apricots pairs well with the tanginess of the yogurt.

In Desserts

• Fruit Topping: Use Glazed Apricots as a topping for cakes, ice cream, or puddings. Their syrup adds an extra layer of sweetness for a delightful finish.

On a Charcuterie Board

• Savory-Sweet Combo: Add Glazed Apricots to your charcuterie board. They complement meats and cheeses beautifully, offering a burst of flavor between bites.

As a Snack

• Healthy Munch: Enjoy them as a quick snack on their own. The chewy texture and syrupy sweetness make them an irresistible choice for any time of day.

In Salads

• Flavor Boost: Toss Glazed Apricots into salads for added sweetness. They work particularly well with mixed greens, nuts, and cheese.

With Oatmeal or Porridge

• Breakfast Treat: Top your morning oatmeal or porridge with Glazed Apricots. This addition brings natural sweetness and enhances flavor.

How to Perfect Glazed Apricots

Getting the perfect glaze on your apricots is all about technique and ingredients. Follow these tips for optimal results.

• Use Quality Dried Apricots: Choose plump, high-quality dried apricots for better flavor and texture.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of sugar or honey based on your taste preferences. This flexibility ensures you get the desired sweetness.
• Simmer Gently: Maintain low heat while simmering to prevent burning and to ensure even cooking.
• Cool in Syrup: Allow the apricots to cool in the syrup; this helps them absorb more flavor.
• Store Properly: Use an airtight container to keep your Glazed Apricots fresh for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try adding spices like cinnamon or cardamom for an extra flavor twist during poaching.

Best Side Dishes for Glazed Apricots

Glazed Apricots can be paired with various side dishes that enhance their sweet profile. These options provide balance and variety to your meal.

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs perfectly with Glazed Apricots. Consider soft cheeses like brie or sharp cheeses like aged cheddar.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, nuts, and vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the apricots well.
3. Grilled Chicken: The savory flavors of grilled chicken contrast nicely with the sweet glaze of the apricots.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds texture and protein, making it a hearty side alongside Glazed Apricots.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots or sweet potatoes bring earthiness that balances out the dish’s sweetness.
6. Rice Pudding: Serve warm rice pudding topped with Glazed Apricots for a comforting dessert experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Glazed Apricots even more delightful. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results.

• Overcooking the apricots: Cooking the dried apricots for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Stick to the 25-minute simmer time for optimal results.
• Not using enough liquid: If the syrup is too thick, it may not properly coat the apricots. Ensure you follow the recipe’s liquid measurements for perfect glazing.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the apricots to cool in the syrup helps them absorb more flavor. Don’t rush this process; let them cool completely before storing.
• Improper storage: Using a container that isn’t airtight can lead to spoilage. Always use a sanitized airtight container for your Glazed Apricots to keep them fresh longer.
• Ignoring flavor additions: While vanilla enhances flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra kick. Experiment with flavors to find your perfect combination.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Glazed Apricots in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Glazed Apricots

• Freeze your glazed apricots in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Glazed Apricots

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm them for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh apricots instead of dried?

Using fresh apricots is not recommended as they have a higher water content and won’t achieve the same texture or flavor when glazed.

How do I serve Glazed Apricots?

Glazed Apricots are versatile! Serve them with yogurt, over desserts, on a charcuterie board, or just enjoy as a sweet snack.

What variations can I try with Glazed Apricots?

Feel free to customize your recipe by adding spices like cinnamon or experimenting with different sweeteners such as maple syrup.

How long do Glazed Apricots last?

Stored correctly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your Glazed Apricots will stay fresh for up to two weeks.

Final Thoughts

These delectable Glazed Apricots are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, dessert topping, or part of a charcuterie board, they will add a sweet touch to any dish. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite flavors and enjoy the delightful sweetness!