The apricot, scientifically known as Prunus Armeniaca, is one of nature’s most delightful fruits.

With it's firm yet tender skin, juicy peach-like flesh, and a hint of tartness, it’s a treat enjoyed fresh, dried, or canned.

While apricots are believed to have originated in China around 5,000–6,000 years ago, this claim remains debated. Armenia, with its vast diversity of apricot species, is often considered a contender for the fruit's origin. Regardless of its beginnings, the apricot quickly gained popularity due to its hardy nature. Apricot trees are self-pollinating, resistant to harsh climates, and produce abundant harvests, making them ideal for cultivation.

Regardless of it's beginnings, the apricot quickly gained popularity due to its hardy nature. Apricot trees are self-pollinating, resistant to harsh climates, and produce abundant harvests, making them ideal for cultivation. Their easily transportable seeds helped them spread rapidly to neighboring regions like Turkish. It’s believed that apricot seeds traveled along the Silk Road as a valuable agricultural commodity, which likely contributed to their introduction to Europe.

Nutrients & Health Benefits of Apricots

Apricots are truly one of nature's finest creations. Not only are they bursting with flavor, but they’re also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Their signature golden-orange hue comes from beta-carotene, also known as vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant that supports eye health and strengthens the immune system. Beneath their soft skin, the sweet and tangy flesh is full of additional nutrients, including vitamins C, E, and B6, as well as calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium.

Thanks to their high fiber content, apricots are also great for gut health. Just one serving of dried apricots contains 2 grams of fiber, helping to promote regular digestion. This fiber also nourishes the beneficial bacteria in your gut, contributing to a stronger and healthier microbiome. While there are plenty of ways to enjoy apricots, we love indulging in Made In Nature’s organic, unsulfured dried apricots—they’re sweet, satisfying, and packed with goodness!

How to Use Apricots

Apricots are a versatile fruit, enjoyed fresh, dried, or canned. While fresh apricots straight from the tree are undeniably delicious, most of us don’t have that luxury. Luckily, dried apricots are widely available and incredibly versatile, making them an easy and tasty addition to your diet. One of favorite ways to enjoy dried apricots is in trail mix. Simply slice them into quarters, mix them with other dried fruits (like figs and cranberries), and combine them with your favorite nuts for a wholesome, energy-packed snack. Dried apricots are also fantastic in salads, as a topping for overnight oats, or baked into scones for a naturally sweet treat.

Recipe: Plant-Based Apricot Canapés

Ingredients:

12–15 Made In Nature Dried Apricots

½ cup plant-based cream cheese (we love Violife)

4–5 sprigs of rosemary

1 tsp plant-based milk (try cashew milk)

1 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped

¼ cup almonds, sliced

¼ cup Made In Nature Raisins (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese, plant-based milk, and rosemary. Mix until smooth and creamy.

2. Finely chop the basil leaves and sliced almonds. Set them aside.

3. Spread a dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto each dried apricot.

4. Sprinkle each apricot with chopped basil and sliced almonds.

5. If using raisins, top each canapé with 1–2 raisins for an extra touch of sweetness.

6. Serve and enjoy this easy, elegant snack!