These Turkish-style stuffed apricots are incredibly easy to make and perfect for entertaining, whether as a sweet appetizer or simple bite-sized dessert.
This post may contain affiliate links, where we earn from qualifying purchases. See more details in the policy page.
I always associate nibbling nuts with having people over for dinner when I was younger at my parents. My parents would always have a drink and snacks in the living room before dinner was served, with nuts being the most common. I always made sure I was near the bowl so I could dig in for more.
Now my kids seem to have inherited my soft spot for nuts and love snacking on them, particularly if they are a little sweet. Rather than offering just plain nuts to guests, though, these Turkish-style stuffed apricots are a great way to use nuts in a smarter, delicious way.
I first had these Turkish-style stuffed apricots at a Turkish restaurant in London a number of years ago. A few of us had opted for the set meal and got so wrapped up in the delicious mezze to start, we were already quite full before the mains came.
When they said there was dessert, our first response was we couldn't possibly manage. But when I saw stuffed apricots on the list, I knew I needed to try them. They are such a simple but delicious treat, I was so glad I managed to make a little room.
How to make Turkish-style stuffed apricots
All you do is:
- Rehydrate the apricots overnight by soaking in water.
- Simmer them in a simple syrup a few minutes then leave to cool.
- Stuff them with Greek yogurt and topped with nuts.
Actually traditionally it would be buffalo cream rather than yogurt, but that's not exactly easy to come by. Greek yogurt or labneh make a great alternative.
These Turkish-style stuffed apricots are a simple and delicious treat perfect for entertaining. You can make them ahead of time and bring them out for everyone to enjoy when you need them. They're great as an appetizer or even a light dessert with coffee, as they would traditionally be served, plus they'd be great alongside a cheese board.
Try some when you are next entertaining (and of course find an excuse to make them any other time too).
Try these other finger foods:
- Prosciutto wrapped dates
- Cauliflower pakora
- Hot phyllo crab cups
- Plus see more appetizer recipes in the archives.
And if you like the fruit, nuts and dairy combination you might also like umm Ali, an Egyptian dessert similar to bread pudding.
Turkish-style stuffed apricots
Ingredients
- 3 oz dried apricots
- ¾ cup water
- 2 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoon Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup shelled pistachios or almonds approx (can also use glazed nuts, as I did in pics here)
Instructions
- Soak the apricots in the water overnight.
- The next day, put the apricots and their soaking water in a small pan along with the sugar. Bring to a simmer and simmer approx 10 minutes so that the sugar is dissolved and the syrup thickens slightly. Remove from the heat and leave to cool. Note that to here can be done ahead of time.
- Put approximately 1tsp of yogurt in the opening of each apricot and then press a pistachio or almond into the yogurt. Repeat with the rest of the apricots and serve with a little more nuts on the side for decoration.
Nutrition
See some of my favorite cooking tools and ingredients in the Caroline's Cooking Amazon store.
This shop was originally compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser, Sahale Snacks. All opinions are mine alone.
Remember to pin for later!
Annissa
Interesting combination of flavors! Would be perfect to be serve as an appetizer or a snack for any special occasions!
Caroline's Cooking
Indeed, they'd be great for many an occasion.
Jessica Formicola
This is such a fun and unique appetizer! Perfect for the holidays!
Caroline's Cooking
Thanks, I think so too!
Lisa Bynum
Not only do these look delicious, but they seem a lot more nutritious that some of the other calorie-laden snack I will probably consume between now and New Year's.
Caroline's Cooking
It's true, even with the syrup they are on the healthier side, and tasty too!
Daniela
Such a creative appetizer! And I love that it takes so little time to put these stuffed apricots together. Perfect for a party!
Caroline's Cooking
I agree, they'd be great for a party. And while there's a little planning they really are easy to make.
SHASHI AT SAVORYSPIN
I am so loving this combination of sweet, salty and nutty! Tastes and textures are delightful in these little snacks!
Caroline's Cooking
Thanks, they are indeed such a fantastic mix!
Adriana Lopez Martin
I am part Lebanese and we love nibbling this kind of fruit snacks. I am in love with the idea of using labneh. Now I am hungry! Thanks for your participation on this shop ~ client
Caroline's Cooking
Thanks Adriana, I can completely understand why, snacks like these are so moreish, and easy too.