Healthy Apricot Slice
This classic recipe is normally made with biscuits, butter, sugar and sweetened condensed milk but I have ‘healthified’ and modernised it so it is now healthy.Getting rid of the sugar is important now as people are realizing too much sugar is bad for health.The main thing was bypassing store bought condensed milk which is LOADED with sugar. Making your own homemade sugar free version is well worth the effort as its completely healthy and absolutely delicious. The recipe for this is in notes below the main recipe.This new Apricot Slice is just like the old fashioned version - super rich, uber decadent - but it’s secretly healthy and guilt-free! Yup, that means no butter,no white sugar, no biscuits and no sweetened condensed milk, just pure fruity, almondy, coco-nutty goodness.The facts are… to make condensed milk, manufacturers take out about 60% of the water from the milk to “condense” it down. After they“condense” the milk, they add about 40% sugar to fill the void from the water. I’m sure you’re asking yourself why the manufacturers do this. Well, the added sugar means the shelf life is longer, plus transporting the milk is easier due to not having to store it in cooler temperatures.Its always about the convenience to them, rather than people’s health.But when you take the time and effort to make your own condensed milk, especially if its from coconut cream to make this delightful apricot slice, you get all the real, natural coconut flavor - no artificial food flavorings here! Each slice is like a piece of heaven.As already mentioned, the recipe for the homemade sugar free condensed milk is below in notes. It really very easy to do and you can keep some in your fridge so its ready to add a dollop on and in EVERYTHING for a super healthy treat.It will be something you can enjoy regularly as part of a healthy eating plan. Its high in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a form of beneficial fat that can increase energy levels and enhance brain function and many other health benefits. MCTs also help people lose weight by making them feel fuller longer and encouraging fat burning, they also have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can boost the immune system and promote healthy skin.This recipe for Apricot Slice is chocka with dried apricots, almond meal, and coconut and if you take the time to make the sugar free condensed milk you will have a recipe that is super healthy that the whole family will love.Plus it's no bake! So when you don't feel like baking but want a sweet treat this apricot slice comes together in no time. Not too sweet, full of juicy apricot flavour and topped with a delicious cashew cream frosting, this apricot slice won't last long!If you have seen some of the other healthy sweet recipes here on my blog you will see that I do love a no bake slice - they are my kind of baking - they taste amazing and best of all are pretty much no fail!This apricot coconut slice is filling! It contains protein and fibre from the almonds, cashews and desiccated coconut which helps keep kids (or adults) tummies full!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups dried apricots, soaked in water for 15 minutes, drained, chopped
- 1 cup condensed milk – store bought or sugar free recipe in notes below
- 1 cup desiccated coconut
- 1 cup almond meal/flour
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Cashew Cream Frosting
- 1 1/2 cups cashews, soaked 3+ hours and drained
- 1/2 cup coconut milk, milk of choice or water
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- First, if you wish to use the sugar free condensed milk recipe below in notes, make it first so it is ready when you are ready to make the apricot slice. Line an 8 x 8” baking pan or dish with parchment paper on the bottom and sides leaving some overhanging to act as a handle to get the bars out easier for cutting.In a medium sized saucepan, on a low heat, gently melt together condensed milk, coconut oil and honey.When melted, add desiccated coconut, almond meal, chopped apricots and vanilla and mix until well combined.Scoop out the dough and press it evenly into the pan with a spatula or back of a spoon.Refrigerate while you prepare the cashew cream frosting.
Cashew Cream Frosting
- Add all ingredients to a food processor or high speed blender and blend until smooth and creamy.Depending on the power of your blender this might take a few minutes. Stop blending to scrape the sides if necessary and continue to blend until very smooth. Taste test and add more honey if you think it needs it.Pour the frosting over the chilled slice and spread evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon, then place back in the refrigerator for an hour or two until set.Cut into 8 (or more) bars or squares. Store leftovers in the fridge.
Notes
For the healthy condensed milk recipe go here: Condensed Coconut Milk
If you are looking for more delicious, healthy, no bake desserts and treats to help you reach your health, wellness and fitness goals, you will love my collection here: Blended Bites
