The Best Apricot Treats and Sweet Breakfast Ideas

National Apricot Day is the perfect opportunity to highlight fresh fruit flavors that feel bright, balanced, and versatile in the kitchen. Apricots bring a naturally sweet yet slightly tangy profile that works beautifully in breakfast recipes and baked treats alike. When paired with thoughtfully designed kitchen appliances, these fruit-forward ideas come together with ease and consistency.

This day is a reminder that seasonal ingredients can elevate everyday cooking without overcomplicating it. TRU and Babycakes appliances are built for approachable recipes, relaxed hosting, and moments that bring people together. From warm waffles to shareable desserts, these apricot-inspired recipes show how simple tools can support flavorful results.

Below are sweet breakfast ideas and baked treats that put apricots front and center, each designed to feel inviting, practical, and perfect for celebrating National Apricot Day at home.

Why Apricot Works for Breakfast and Baking

Apricots have a tender texture and a balanced flavor that adapts well to both sweet batters and warm breakfast dishes. Fresh apricots soften beautifully when cooked, while dried apricots provide concentrated sweetness and structure in baked goods. Both options pair well with small kitchen appliances that offer consistent heat and reliable performance.

In breakfast recipes, apricots add variety without overwhelming the dish. In baked treats, they complement flavors like vanilla, almond, cinnamon, and honey, creating recipes that feel familiar yet seasonal.

Apricot Vanilla Waffles with the Babycakes Waffle Stick Maker

These waffles are lightly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, with bursts of fresh apricot throughout. The Babycakes Waffle Stick Maker makes it easy to create evenly cooked waffles that are perfect for breakfast spreads or brunch tables.

 

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup finely diced fresh apricots

Instructions

1. Preheat the Babycakes Waffle Stick Maker according to manufacturer instructions.
   
2. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
   
3. In a separate bowl, whisk milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
   
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
   
5. Gently fold in diced apricots.
   
6. Lightly grease the waffle plates if needed.
   
7. Pour batter into the waffle maker, filling just enough to cover the plates.
   
8. Close the lid and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until waffles are golden and cooked through.
   

Serve warm with honey, yogurt, or fresh fruit on the side.

 

Honey Apricot Cupcakes with the Babycakes Cupcake Maker

These soft cupcakes are lightly sweetened and filled with fruity flavor, making them a great option for breakfast-style treats or simple desserts. The Babycakes Cupcake Maker keeps baking approachable and consistent.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/3 cup neutral oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk
• 3/4 cup chopped dried apricots

Instructions

1. Preheat the Babycakes Cupcake Maker.
   
2. In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
   
3. In another bowl, whisk honey, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
   
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients and stir until just incorporated.
   
5. Fold in chopped dried apricots evenly.
   
6. Fill each cupcake well about two thirds full.
   
7. Close the lid and bake for 7 to 9 minutes until cupcakes are set and lightly golden.
   
8. Remove carefully and allow to cool slightly before serving.
   

These cupcakes are easy to make ahead and store well for busy mornings.

 

Crispy Apricot French Toast Bites with the TRU Air Fryer

These French toast bites turn perfectly golden in the TRU Air Fryer, delivering a crisp exterior with a soft center. Apricots add a bright, fruit-forward finish that makes this recipe ideal for breakfast boards or weekend mornings.

Ingredients

• 4 slices brioche or challah bread cut into 1 inch cubes
• 2 large eggs
• 1 half cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 half cup chopped fresh apricots
• Nonstick cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat the TRU Air Fryer to 375 degrees.
   
2. In a medium bowl, whisk eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and melted butter until fully combined.
   
3. Add bread cubes to the mixture and gently toss until evenly coated.
   
4. Fold in chopped apricots.
   
5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick spray.
   
6. Place the French toast bites in a single layer in the basket.
   
7. Air fry for 6 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crisp on the outside.
   
8. Remove and serve warm.
   

Finish with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or a yogurt drizzle for a balanced breakfast treat.

 

Apricot Almond Mini Cakes Using the Babycakes Cake Pop Maker

These mini cakes highlight apricot flavor in a tender bite that works well for dessert tables, brunch spreads, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 quarter teaspoon salt
• 1 half cup granulated sugar
• 1 half cup unsalted butter softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 half cup apricot preserves

Instructions

1. Preheat the Babycakes Cake Pop Maker.
   
2. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
   
3. In another bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
   
5. Stir in almond extract.
   
6. Gradually add dry ingredients until combined.
   
7. Spoon batter into cake pop wells, filling halfway.
   
8. Add a small teaspoon of apricot preserves to the center, then top with more batter.
   
9. Close lid and bake for 4 to 5 minutes until cakes are fully set.
   

 

Where Apricots Are Grown and How to Choose the Best Ones

Apricots are primarily grown in regions with warm days and cool nights, which help develop their signature sweetness and soft texture. In the United States, California produces the majority of fresh apricots, particularly in the Central Valley, where the climate is ideal for stone fruit. You may also find apricots grown in parts of Washington and Utah during peak season.

When selecting fresh apricots, look for fruit that feels slightly soft when gently pressed but not mushy. The skin should be smooth and richly colored, ranging from golden yellow to deep orange, sometimes with a rosy blush. Avoid apricots that are overly firm or pale, as they may lack flavor, and skip any with green patches or shriveled skin.

 

Bringing Fruit-Forward Moments into Everyday Cooking

National Apricot Day is a celebration of seasonal flavor and simple kitchen creativity. With TRU and Babycakes appliances, these fruit-forward recipes fit seamlessly into everyday routines, weekend breakfasts, and casual hosting moments.

From warm waffles to shareable desserts, apricots offer a fresh way to refresh familiar recipes while keeping the process approachable and enjoyable.

 

Shop the Kitchen Tools Featured

Bring these apricot-forward ideas into your kitchen with TRU and Babycakes appliances available at selectbrands.com. Discover tools designed for everyday cooking, gathering, and moments worth sharing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned or frozen apricots instead of fresh?

Yes, canned or frozen apricots can be used in these recipes. Drain canned apricots thoroughly and fully thaw frozen apricots before chopping to prevent excess moisture.

Do dried apricots need to be softened before baking?

Dried apricots can be used as is for cupcakes and cakes. For a softer texture, soak them in warm water for 5 minutes and pat dry before adding to batter.

Are these recipes suitable for meal prep?

Many of these recipes store well in airtight containers for up to three days. Mini cakes and cupcakes can also be frozen and gently reheated.

Can I substitute another fruit for apricots?

Peaches, nectarines, or plums are great alternatives with similar textures and flavor profiles, making them easy swaps in most of these recipes. Check out our recipes featuring another favorite fruit—peaches!