Name: Apricot squares with coconut meringue: A fluffy pastry-shop-style dessert
Prep time: 70 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 70 min
Yield: 16
Ingredients: 6 egg yolks; 360 g all-purpose flour; 150 g butter (softened); 130 g powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; finely grated zest of 1/2 lemon; 200 ml milk; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 can apricot compote (well drained); 6 egg whites; 180 g powdered sugar; 100 g grated coconut; a pinch of salt

Preparation procedure

Preheat the oven to 180 °C. Line a 30 × 40 cm baking tray with baking paper or lightly grease and dust with flour.
Beat the softened butter with the powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in the yolks and vanilla extract. While stirring constantly, pour in the milk and at the same time add the sifted all-purpose flour mixed with the baking powder and lemon zest. A smooth, medium-thick batter will form.
Spread the batter evenly on the prepared tray. Let the apricots from the compote drain thoroughly, cut them into smaller pieces if necessary, and distribute them evenly over the surface of the batter.
Place the cake in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes, until the batter firms slightly and begins to turn golden.
Meanwhile, whisk the egg whites with a pinch of salt to soft peaks. Gradually add the powdered sugar and whisk until stiff, glossy peaks form. Finally, gently fold in the grated coconut.
Remove the baked base from the oven and spread the coconut meringue evenly over it. Reduce the oven temperature to 150 °C and return the cake. Bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the meringue acquires a light golden color.
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely. Then cut into squares.

Number of servings

approx. 16–20 squares (tray 30 × 40 cm)

Total preparation time

approx. 70 minutes

(of which baking is approximately 35–40 minutes)

Recipe conclusion

Apricot squares with coconut meringue are an ideal dessert for anyone who enjoys light, fruity cakes without heavy creams. Thanks to the airy meringue and juicy fruit, the cake feels fresh and elegant, yet its preparation is simple. It’s perfect with coffee, for celebrations, or as a sweet weekend treat.