Black cake with apricots

Apricot Brownie - a delicacy with a fruity twist

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 55-65 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Introduction
Who doesn’t love a dessert that combines decadent chocolate with the freshness of fruits? Apricot brownie is a simple yet extremely satisfying recipe that transforms an ordinary ingredient like cocoa into a sophisticated taste experience. This delicacy is perfect for any occasion, from a casual gathering with friends to a special celebration. Imagine juicy, lightly caramelized apricots providing a sweet-tart note that splendidly contrasts with the dense and rich texture of the brownie. I invite you to discover the steps to prepare this delicious dessert!

Ingredients
- 200 g flour
- 200 g + 4 tablespoons sugar
- 160 g butter (soft, at room temperature)
- 4 eggs (separate yolks from whites)
- 6 tablespoons cocoa (good quality for an intense flavor)
- 100 g grated chocolate (preferably dark or milk)
- 400 g yogurt (preferably Greek, for a creamy texture)
- 1 packet baking powder
- 6 large apricots (ripe but firm)
- a pinch of salt

Preparation technique

1. Preheat the oven
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This will ensure even baking and help achieve the perfect texture for the brownie.

2. Prepare the baking tray
Generously grease a baking tray with butter and sprinkle the 4 tablespoons of sugar over the entire surface. This will create a sweet crust that will caramelize the apricots during baking, giving them a wonderful flavor.

3. Prepare the apricots
Wash the apricots, cut them in half, and remove the pits. Place them in the tray, pit side down, leaving a little space between them for even baking.

4. Prepare the batter
In a large bowl, mix the soft butter with the sugar (200 g) until you achieve a fluffy cream. This is the base that will provide moisture and richness to the dessert.

5. Add the wet ingredients
Add the egg yolks and yogurt to the bowl with butter and sugar. Continue mixing until all ingredients are well incorporated.

6. Mix the dry ingredients
In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and sifted cocoa. This step is essential to avoid lumps in the batter. Gradually add this combination to the bowl with the wet ingredients while continuing to mix.

7. Incorporate the chocolate
Add the grated chocolate to the obtained batter. This will add extra flavor and texture.

8. Beat the egg whites
In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form peaks. This step is important as it will help aerate the batter, giving the brownie a light consistency.

9. Combine the ingredients
Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter using a spatula, mixing from top to bottom to avoid losing the air from the whites. This will ensure a fluffy and light brownie.

10. Bake
Pour the brownie mixture over the apricots in the tray and level the surface. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. It’s good to check from time to time, as each oven has its own peculiarities.

11. Cool and serve
Once baked, let the brownie cool in the tray for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully flip it onto a platter and let it cool completely. Serve generous portions and keep the rest in the fridge, where it can be enjoyed cold, providing a delightful experience.

Serving suggestions
Serve the brownie with a spoonful of Greek yogurt on top, sprinkled with a little cocoa or powdered sugar. A wonderful pairing can also be achieved with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The combination of flavors will bring smiles to your guests’ faces!

Possible variations
If you want to experiment, you can replace the apricots with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches, plums, or even raspberries. Each variation will offer a different taste and interesting texture. You can also add chopped nuts or almonds for an extra crunch.

Nutritional information (per serving, estimated)
- Calories: approximately 350
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Protein: 6 g

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of yogurt?
Yes, but Greek yogurt provides a creamier consistency and a more intense flavor.

2. How can I store the brownie?
It keeps well in the fridge, covered, for 3-4 days. You can also serve it after a day, when the flavors have intensified.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
For a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with a mixture of flaxseeds or mashed banana, and the butter with vegan margarine.

4. What drinks pair well with this dessert?
A black coffee or espresso will balance the sweetness of the brownie, while a fruit tea will add a note of freshness.

In conclusion, apricot brownie is more than just a dessert - it’s a culinary experience that brings together the perfect flavors and textures. Don’t hesitate to experiment and add a personal touch to your recipe! Enjoy!