These lovely apricot bars are easy to make and quite delicious.

They do take a bit of time but are not difficult at all.

The dried apricots just need to simmer slowly until they form a soft paste for the filling.

Prep time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

Filling:
1 cup dried apricots
1 cup water
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Dough:
1 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup rolled oats (not instant)
1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Combine apricots, water, sugar and lemon juice in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer covered for 25-30 minutes, until apricots are soft. Remove the cover and continue cooking until the water evaporates and the apricots form a paste, about 1 hour. Keep an eye on the mixture, stirring occasionally and add a little more water if necessary so that the apricots do not burn.

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Combine all dough ingredients and mix until crumbly. Press 2/3 of the dough into a lightly oiled 8 inch square (or round for a pie) baking pan. Spread with the apricot paste. Sprinkle with the remaining dough and press lightly.

Bake for 30 minutes.

Makes 16 squares.