Apricot Oatmeal Bars Recipe Sandsquish

1. 1

   Butter an 8-inch square glass baking dish.

2. 2

   Sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder and salt into a large mixing bowl.

3. 3

   Stir in oats.

4. 4

   Add the brown sugar to the flour mixture and combine until the two are well mixed.

5. 5

   Using your hand or a pastry blender, cut in the butter or margarine 1 tablespoon at a time until the mixture resembles coarse meal.

6. 6

   Sprinkle about 3 cups of the oatmeal mixture in the greased pan and press it down to form an even layer.

7. 7

   Microwave with 650 watts for 2 minutes.

8. 8

   Use a spatula to spread the preserves over the oatmeal crust.

9. 9

   Sprinkle the remaining oatmeal mixture over the preserves, pressing it down gently.

10. 10

    This will prevent the crust from crumbling when you cut the bars.

11. 11

    Microwave with 650 watts for 1/2 minutes.

12. 12

    During the cooking time the preserves will bubble up.

13. 13

    Turn the pan half-way around and microwave for another 3 1/2 minutes.

14. 14

    When done, the crust will appear soft and somewhat mushy, but it will solidify and harden within 15 minutes after removal from the oven.

15. 15

    Let cool, and cut into bars with a sharp knife or one with a serrated edge.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.