A Sweet Touch of Summer in Every Spoon
When summer arrives and ripe apricots fill the market stalls, I know it’s time to make my favorite homemade apricot puree. It’s a simple recipe that’s become a quiet ritual in my kitchen—one that reminds me of sunny afternoons, the hum of family life, and the joy of cooking with fresh fruit.
What makes this puree so special is how easy it is. Just fresh apricots, a touch of sugar, a drizzle of honey, and a hint of almond extract—that’s all you need. In under 20 minutes, you have a smooth, golden blend that’s naturally sweet and incredibly versatile. I often spoon it over oatmeal, swirl it into yogurt, or offer it as a wholesome treat for the kids. It’s one of those recipes that works its way into everything, and no matter how often I make it, it never gets old.
What You’ll Need to Make Apricot Puree
Making apricot puree at home doesn’t require any special equipment—just a few basic kitchen tools and you’re good to go. Here’s what I always reach for when making a fresh batch:
Basic Kitchen Tools
- Medium saucepan – for gently simmering the apricots with sugar and honey
- Blender or food processor – to create a smooth, velvety texture
- Measuring cups and spoons – for keeping everything balanced
- Fine mesh strainer (optional) – if you want an extra-silky finish
- Rubber spatula – to help transfer the puree easily without wasting a drop
Storage Essentials
- Glass jar or airtight container – to store the puree safely in the fridge
- Ice cube tray or silicone molds (optional) – perfect for freezing small portions for later
That’s all you need! Just a few simple tools, a little time, and a bowl of ripe apricots, and you’ll be ready for the next step.
Ingredients for the Perfect Apricot Puree
Here’s what you’ll need to make a fresh, naturally sweet batch of apricot puree at home:
- 1¼ pounds of ripe apricots (usually 6 to 8 pieces): washed, cut in half, and with the pits removed
- 2 tbsp sugar: adjust to taste, especially if your apricots are very sweet
- 2–3 tbsp mild honey: clover or sage honey adds gentle, floral sweetness
- ⅛ tsp almond extract (optional): a subtle nutty hint that lifts the flavor beautifully
That’s it—just a few ingredients, all easy to find and naturally nourishing. Once you have everything ready, it’s time to bring it all together on the stove.
How to Make Apricot Puree Step by Step
Making homemade apricot puree is easier than you might think. With just one pot and a blender, you’ll have a golden, velvety puree in no time. Here’s how I make mine:
1. Prep the Apricots
Start by washing your apricots thoroughly. Halve them, remove the pits, and set them aside. No peeling needed unless you prefer a super-smooth texture—personally, I leave the skin on for extra flavor and fiber.
2. Simmer Gently
Place the halved apricots into a medium saucepan, then add the sugar, honey, and almond extract if you’re using it. Set the heat to low or medium, and let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally as the apricots begin to soften and turn juicy, releasing their sweet aroma as they cook down.
3. Blend Until Smooth
Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes, then pour it into your blender or food processor. Blend until it’s smooth and silky. For an extra fine texture—perfect for little ones or elegant desserts—you can pass it through a fine mesh strainer, just like you would with a tart and vibrant cranberry puree.
4. Taste and Adjust
Now’s the time to taste. Need a little more sweetness? Add a drizzle more honey. Want a stronger aroma? A tiny dash more almond extract does wonders.
5. Store and Cool
Pour the finished puree into a clean glass jar or storage container. Let it cool completely before sealing. Store in the fridge for 5–7 days, or freeze for longer use.
That’s all there is to it—pure, fresh, homemade goodness in every spoonful.
Tips & Sweet Ideas for Using Apricot Puree
Once your homemade apricot puree is ready, you’ll be surprised at how many ways you can use it. It’s the kind of kitchen gem that fits into breakfasts, snacks, and even special treats.
Fun Ways to Enjoy It
- Swirl it into oatmeal or yogurt – It gives plain oats a fruity lift, especially when paired with something like these peach cobbler overnight oats. My kids think it’s dessert!
- Use it as a topping – Drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, or even a slice of cheesecake. The soft tartness pairs beautifully with creamy textures.
- Blend it into smoothies – Frozen or fresh, a spoonful gives smoothies a rich color and natural sweetness.
- Serve it as baby food – Just a simple, clean puree with no extras—ideal for little ones trying fruit for the first time.
This apricot puree is so much more than just fruit in a jar—it’s a little sunshine you can use in countless ways, much like this blackberry puree that’s another favorite in my kitchen.
Nutrition Facts (Approx. per 2 Tbsp Serving)
Here’s a quick look at what each spoonful of this homemade apricot puree brings to the table:
- Calories: ~40 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Sugars: ~8g (from apricots and honey)
- Fiber: ~0.5g (more if you keep the skins on)
- Vitamin A: ~15% of your daily value
- Vitamin C: ~10% of your daily value
It’s a light, nourishing option—sweet enough to feel like a treat, yet simple enough for everyday meals. And if you’re curious, here’s why apricots are so good for you—they’re naturally full of fiber, antioxidants, and skin-loving nutrients.
Serving & Storing Your Apricot Puree
Once your apricot puree is done, it’s ready to brighten up all kinds of meals. Whether you’re planning a family brunch or just sneaking a spoonful straight from the jar (no shame—I do it too!), here’s how to make the most of it.
Serving Ideas
- Stir into breakfast – A spoonful over warm porridge or chia pudding is an instant upgrade.
- Use as a spread – Try it on toast, crepes, or layered in parfaits for a fruity twist.
- Pair with dessert – Swirl into vanilla ice cream, top mini cheesecakes, or add a layer in trifles.
Smart Storage Tips
- Refrigerate in a sealed jar – It keeps fresh for 5 to 7 days. If the puree settles a bit in the fridge, a quick stir will bring it right back to life.
- Freeze in small portions – Ice cube trays or silicone molds work beautifully. Once frozen, pop them into a bag for up to 3 months of storage.
- Label and date – Always helpful when freezing, especially if you plan to mix it with other fruit later.
With just a bit of planning, you’ll always have a burst of summery apricot flavor ready to enjoy—no matter the season.
Apricot Puree FAQs
What is apricot puree used for?
Apricot puree is one of those handy staples that fits into almost any meal. It’s delicious spooned over warm pancakes or stirred into a bowl of yogurt. I love layering it into desserts or using it as a naturally sweet option for babies. It even pairs surprisingly well with savory dishes—try it alongside grilled chicken or tucked into a couscous bowl for a fruity twist.
How to make fresh apricot puree?
Fresh apricot puree is simple to make at home. Start by giving the apricots a good rinse, then slice them open, remove the pits, and set them aside. Add the fruit to a saucepan along with some sugar, honey, and, if you like, a small splash of almond extract for extra flavor. Let everything cook gently until the apricots soften completely. After that, blend the mixture until smooth. You can enjoy it as is, or strain it for a finer texture if you prefer.
Can I puree dried apricots?
Yes, you can! Soak dried apricots in warm water until they’re soft—usually about an hour. Then blend them with a bit of the soaking liquid until smooth. A touch of lemon juice can help brighten the flavor. This method is great when fresh apricots are out of season.
How do you make a puree?
Making any fruit puree is simple: cook or soften the fruit first, then blend until smooth. Depending on the fruit and your taste preferences, you can add sweeteners, spices, or even a splash of citrus to bring out the flavor. For extra-smooth results, strain through a fine mesh sieve.
A Sweet Kitchen Staple to Keep on Hand
This homemade apricot puree is simple, quick, and full of natural flavor. Whether you’re using it for breakfast, dessert, or baby meals, it’s a small recipe that brings big joy. With just a few fresh ingredients and a little time, you’ll have a jar of sunshine ready to enjoy anytime.
Give it a try, and don’t forget to share how you used your apricot puree—I’d love to hear what sweet ideas you come up with!
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Homemade Apricot Puree (Full Printable Recipe)
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 1½ cups 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This homemade apricot puree is naturally sweet, smooth, and perfect for breakfasts, desserts, or baby meals.
Quick to make with ripe apricots, it adds a summery burst of flavor to any dish.
Ingredients
1¼ pounds ripe apricots (6 to 8), halved and pitted
2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
2–3 tablespoons mild honey (such as clover or sage)
⅛ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Instructions
1. Wash the apricots, then halve and remove the pits. No need to peel unless you prefer.
2. Add apricots to a medium saucepan with sugar, honey, and almond extract (if using).
3. Simmer over low-medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apricots soften.
4. Let cool slightly, then transfer to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
5. For an extra silky texture, strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve.
6. Taste and adjust sweetness or almond extract if desired.
7. Pour into a clean jar and let cool completely before refrigerating.
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Simmering + Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: ~40 kcal
- Sugar: ~8g
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
Keywords: apricot puree, homemade fruit puree, baby food apricot, apricot topping, apricot sauce