7 Easy Gluten-Free Apricot Desserts to Try This Summer

Gluten-free apricot desserts are the kind of treat that taste like summer — bright, juicy, and perfect for home-baked sweetness. Apricots are one of the season’s best fruits to bake with: sweet but slightly tart, juicy when cooked, and totally underrated in desserts. While cherry desserts might steal the spotlight in summer baking, apricots bring something lighter, fresher, and just as exceptionally tasty — especially when paired with almonds, warm spices or vanilla.

This roundup features 7 gluten-free recipes that highlight apricots in all the best ways — Whether you’re using market-fresh fruit or working from your freezer stash, these recipes are simple, seasonal, and full of flavor. Perfect for picnics, summer gatherings, or just slowing down with something sweet freshly baked from your oven.

How to Choose & Use Apricots for the Best Gluten-Free Desserts

Q: How do I pick good apricots at the store or market?

A: Look for apricots that are deep orange-gold in color and slightly soft to the touch — kind of like a ripe peach, but smaller. If they’re still firm, they’ll ripen in a day or two at room temp. Avoid any that look pale yellow or have greenish spots — those usually weren’t picked ripe and won’t have much flavor.

Q: What do apricots taste like?
A: Apricots have a unique flavor that’s kind of a mix between a peach and a plum. They’re sweet, but also a little tart — and when they’re super ripe, they have this soft, floral note that’s honestly underrated.

Q: Can I use frozen apricots in desserts?
A: Yes, frozen apricots totally work — especially in crisps, compotes, or anything where the texture doesn’t need to be perfect. Just thaw and drain them first, otherwise things can get a little too watery.

Q: Do I have to peel apricots before baking?
A: No! The skin is super thin and softens when baked, so there’s no need to peel. Just wash them, pit them, and you’re good to go.

Q: What’s the best way to store fresh apricots?
A: If they’re still firm, let them ripen at room temp for a couple of days. Once they’re soft and smell sweet, move them to the fridge — they’ll last a few more days that way.

Q: Are apricots healthy?
A: According to Very Well Health, apricots are high in vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber. They’re also low in calories and have antioxidants, so they’re great for your skin and digestion. (Basically: apricot dessert that your body benefits from.)

7 Sweet, Tart, and Gluten-Free: Fresh Apricot Desserts to Drool Over

If apricot baking is new to you, now’s the perfect time to start. These recipes are easy enough for a weeknight and special enough for sharing, so grab a basket, and enjoy what apricot season has to offer.

BEST Gluten-Free Farmer’s Apricot Cake ->

This Gluten-Free Farmer’s Apricot Cake highlights sweet spiced apricots, and almond topping in a light, tender crumb—perfect for summer. A dairy-free option is available.

Gluten-Free Apricot Blueberry Tarte Tatin -> 

This gluten-free apricot dessert puts a fresh spin on the classic, with mascarpone for a light, moist texture and lemon zest for brightness. The caramelized fruit shines in this gluten-free treat—delicious on its own or with ice cream or whipped cream.

Gluten Free Apricot Tart->

This gluten-free tart combines sweet-tangy apricots with almond filling and a hint of orange, all in a rustic, no-roll flaky crust—an easy summer dessert

Gluten-Free Apricot Maple Butter Cake->

This Gluten-Free Apricot Maple Butter Cake is moist and buttery, topped with a maple apricot walnut glaze. A delicious way to enjoy fresh end-of-summer apricots.

Gluten-Free Apricot Danish Coffee Cake->

This Gluten-Free Apricot Danish Coffee Cake is a perfect summer treat made with fresh, in-season apricots—sweet, sunny, and seasonal. I hope you give this gluten-free apricot Danish coffee cake a try. This recipe is easy, even for novice bakers.

Apricot Turmeric Ginger Chia Smoothie->

Whether boosting immunity, aiding digestion, or enjoying a tasty treat, this smoothie offers natural, gluten-free goodness for your health with the delicious flavor of fresh apricots

Gluten-Free Apricot Walnut Quick Bread->

Hosting brunch, craving a snack, or in the mood to bake? This Gluten-Free Apricot Walnut Quick Bread is your go-to—wholesome, naturally sweet, easy to make, and hard to resist.

Final Thoughts:

Whether you’re working with fresh-picked apricots or pulling a stash from the freezer, these gluten-free desserts are all about making the most of summer’s sweetest fruit. From rustic farmer cakes to tarts, apricots bring that perfect balance of sweet and tart that excels in baking — no gluten required.