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Apricot Almond Cream Cheese Squares Recipe

These decadent Apricot Almond Cream Cheese Squares are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Inspired by a friend's recipe, these rich and buttery bars feature a flaky crust, a luscious apricot cream cheese filling, and a delightful almond topping. Perfect for parties (mini muffin cups are a fantastic serving idea!), these squares are best made ahead and chilled overnight to allow the flavors to fully meld. The versatile base recipe can be adapted for countless other desserts! Prepare to be amazed by how easy it is to create this impressive treat.

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 60 mins
Calories 175.5 kcal
Protein 3g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
Apricot Almond Cream Cheese Squares

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Apricot Almond Cream Cheese Squares

  • Yellow Cake Mix
  • Butter
  • 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds
  • Apricot Preserves
  • 8 oz (227g) cream cheese (softened)
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup (60g) shredded coconut

How to Make Apricot Almond Cream Cheese Squares

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Position oven rack to the second lowest position.
  3. Grease a 13x9 inch baking pan.
  4. In a large bowl, combine 15.25 oz (432g) yellow cake mix and 1/2 cup (113g) melted unsalted butter.
  5. Mix on low speed until crumbly.
  6. Stir in 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds.
  7. Reserve 1 cup of the crumb mixture.
  8. Press the remaining crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  9. Evenly spread 1 1/2 cups (355g) apricot preserves over the crust.
  10. In a separate bowl, beat together 8 oz (227g) cream cheese (softened), 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar, 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 large egg until smooth and creamy.
  11. On low speed, mix in 1/3 cup (79g) apricot preserves.
  12. Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the apricot layer.
  13. Combine the reserved 1 cup crumb mixture with 1/2 cup (60g) shredded coconut.
  14. Sprinkle the coconut crumb mixture evenly over the cream cheese filling.
  15. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown and the center is set.
  16. Let cool completely before refrigerating overnight. Cut into small squares.
  17. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

6 g

Sugar

55g

Fat

20g

Carbs

8g

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