Blue Ribbon Apricot-Date Bars

Ingredients 0/10

Step 1

Combin the brown sugar, dates, apricots, and apricot nectar in a saucepan. Heat it over medium, stirring constantly, until the nectar thickens and mostly evaporates—this should take about 5 minutes. Once it’s nice and sticky, take it off the heat and let it cool while you prepare the rest.

Step 2

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking sheet. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt, then set that aside.

Step 3

In a large bowl, mix the melted shortening, vanilla, and 1 cup of brown sugar until smooth and lump-free. Add the flour mixture and oats, then use your hands to bring everything together evenly.

Step 4

Press half of this oat mixture firmly into the bottom of your baking sheet. Spread the cooled apricot-date filling evenly over it, then press the remaining oat mixture on top, making sure it’s evenly distributed.

Step 5

Pop the tray into the oven and bake until the top turns a lovely golden brown, about 30 minutes. Let the bars cool completely before slicing and serving.