APRICOT MACAROON BARS
For Crust:3/4 cup butter or margarine, softened1 cup sugar2 eggs1/4 teaspoon almond extract1 1/2 cups flour1 cup coconut
For Filling:1 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped 1 cup water1/2 cup packed brown sugar1/2 teaspoon vanilla1/3 cup toasted coconut
Preheat oven to 350. In a large mixing bowl beat butter or margarine with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add the granulated sugar and beat till combined. Beat in eggs and almond extract. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. Stir in any remaining flour with a wooden spoon. Stir in coconut. Spread the batter into a greased 9X13 pan Bake for 25 minutes.
In a saucepan combine the dried apricots and water. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 7 to 8 minutes, or till apricots are tender. Stir in brown sugar. Cook and stir till sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and add the vanilla. Spoon the filling over the hot crust. Sprinkle the toasted coconut over the top. Return to the oven and bake an additional 10 minutes more. Cool in pan for at least 30 minutes. Cut into bars. Makes 30 to 36.