7 Best Dried Apricots: for Sweet and Healthy Snacking
Dried apricots are a convenient way to enjoy the naturally sweet flavor of apricots without worrying about refrigeration. They are easy to pack for work, travel, hiking, or everyday snacking and can also be added to oatmeal, cereals, salads, baked goods, and trail mixes.
However, not all dried apricots are the same. They can vary in sweetness, texture, size, ingredients, and whether they contain added sulfur dioxide or other preservatives. Here are seven options worth considering, followed by a practical buying guide.
1. Bella Viva Orchards Dried California Tangy Apricots
4.5 out of 5 ratings
Bella Viva Orchards Dried California Tangy Apricots are a good choice if you prefer a more natural-looking product with minimal processing. They typically have a darker brown color because they are not treated with sulfur dioxide to maintain the bright orange appearance.
They tend to have a rich, naturally sweet flavor and chewy texture.
Best for: People looking for organic and unsulphured dried fruit.
2. Turkish Dried Apricots
4.5 out of 5 ratings
Turkish apricots are among the most popular varieties for drying. They are generally larger, softer, and naturally sweet, making them excellent for eating straight from the package.
Their tender texture also makes them useful for cooking and baking.
Best for: Soft, naturally sweet snacking.
3. Nature’s Garden Apricots – Dried Fruit
4.5 out of 5 ratings
Nature’s Garden Probiotic Apricots – Dried Fruit, Plump Dried, No Added Sugar, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free are another popular choice and are often smaller and somewhat firmer than Turkish varieties. Their flavor can be pleasantly tart and concentrated.
They work well in homemade trail mixes, baked recipes, and snack packs.
Best for: A slightly tangier flavor and firmer texture.
4. Organic Sulphur-Free Dried Apricots
4.5 out of 5 ratings
For shoppers who specifically want to avoid added sulfites, sulphur-free apricots are worth considering. These products generally have a darker appearance but can provide a strong, naturally fruity flavor.
Always check the ingredient list to make sure the product does not contain added preservatives you are trying to avoid.
Best for: Shoppers avoiding added sulfites.
5. Nature’s Eats Apricots
4.5 out of 5 ratings
Dried apricot halves are convenient because they are usually large enough to eat individually while still being easy to portion. They can also be chopped into smaller pieces for recipes.
Look for products with a short ingredient list, ideally consisting primarily of apricots.
Best for: Everyday snacking and cooking.
6. Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Apricots
4.5 out of 5 ratings
Terrasoul Superfoods Organic Apricots, 2 Lbs, Unsulphured, No-Added Sugar, Sweet and Tangy Delights for Snacking, Baking, and Vibrant Trail Mixes
If you want to avoid additional sweeteners, choose dried apricots labeled as having no added sugar. Apricots naturally contain sugar, so “no added sugar” does not mean sugar-free.
These are especially useful for people who prefer the fruit’s natural sweetness rather than a candy-like taste.
Best for: People avoiding added sweeteners.
7. Premium Large Dried Apricots
Premium or extra-large dried apricots can be a good option when texture and size are priorities. Larger pieces can feel more substantial as a snack and may have a softer, meatier texture.
They can cost more than standard dried apricots, so compare the price per ounce or per gram rather than simply looking at the package price.
Best for: Premium snacking and gifting.
Dried Apricot Buying Guide: What to Look For
Before buying dried apricots, consider these factors:
Check the Ingredients
Look at the ingredient list rather than relying only on the front of the package. If you want a simple product, look for dried apricots with few ingredients and no unnecessary sweeteners or additives.
Choose Between Sulphured and Unsulphured
Sulphured apricots are commonly treated with sulfur dioxide to help preserve color and extend shelf life. Unsulphured apricots are typically darker because they do not receive the same color-preserving treatment.
If you are sensitive to sulfites, check the label carefully.
Consider the Texture
If you prefer soft and juicy dried fruit, Turkish apricots are often a good option. If you prefer something firmer and chewier, California-style apricots may be more suitable.
Look for Added Sugar
Dried apricots are already naturally sweet. If you want to avoid additional sugar, choose a product labeled “no added sugar” and check the nutrition and ingredient panels.
Compare Price by Weight
A large package isn’t necessarily the better value. Compare the price per ounce, pound, or 100 grams to determine which product gives you the best value.
Check the Packaging
Choose packages that are properly sealed and stored in a cool, dry environment. Resealable packaging can be especially convenient if you plan to eat the apricots gradually.
Consider Organic Certification
If organic farming practices are important to you, look for an appropriate organic certification on the package rather than relying only on marketing language.
Final Thoughts
The best dried apricots depend on your preferences. Turkish dried apricots are a great choice for a soft and sweet snack, while California dried apricots can be appealing if you prefer a firmer, tangier fruit. For shoppers avoiding sulfites or added sugar, carefully checking the ingredient and nutrition labels is especially important.
Whichever variety you choose, compare ingredients, texture, size, packaging, and price per weight before buying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dried Apricots
Nutrition & Health
- Are dried apricots good for you? Yes. They are high in dietary fiber, potassium, iron, and antioxidants like vitamins A and E. However, because moisture is removed, their natural sugars and calories are concentrated.
- Why are some dried apricots bright orange and others brown? Bright orange apricots are treated with sulfur dioxide during drying to preserve their color and extend shelf life. Organic or untreated dried apricots oxidize naturally during the drying process, turning dark brown or black.
- Are dried apricots high in sugar? They contain no added refined sugar (unless specified on the label), but they do have concentrated natural fruit sugars (fructose). A standard 30g serving contains roughly 16g of natural sugar.
- Do dried apricots help with digestion? Yes. Their high fiber content aids digestion, and they contain sorbitol, a natural sugar alcohol that acts as a mild laxative.
Storage & Usage
- How should dried apricots be stored? Keep them in an airtight container in a cool, dry, and dark pantry for up to 6 months. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 12 months or freeze them for up to 18 months.
- Can you rehydrate dried apricots for cooking? Yes. Soak them in warm water, fruit juice, or liquor for 15 to 30 minutes until plump. Rehydrated apricots work well in stews, tagines, and baked goods.
- Are dried apricots safe for dogs? In small quantities, the flesh of a dried apricot is non-toxic to dogs. However, their high fiber and sugar content can cause digestive upset, and whole fresh apricots or pits pose a severe toxic choking hazard.
