QUICK APRICOT ALMOND BARS

Quick Apricot Almond Bars image

This is a bar that my mom used to make and was known as one of her specialties. These bars are sensational and since the recipe makes a lot, they're perfect for family gatherings and potlucks.-Jill Cox, Lincoln, Nebraska

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 50m

Yield about 4 dozen.

Number Of Ingredients 16

Ingredients

3/4 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup confectioners' sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
TOPPING:
1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup sugar
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup butter, softened
1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
3 eggs
1 cup chopped almonds
1 jar (12 ounces) apricot preserves

Steps:

In a large bowl, cream the butter, confectioners' sugar and vanilla until light and creamy. Add flour and salt; mix well (mixture will be crumbly). , Press into an ungreased 15x10x1-in. baking pan. Bake at 350° for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned. , Meanwhile, for topping, in a large bowl, beat the flour, sugars, butter, baking powder, salt and almond extract until blended. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in almonds. , Spread preserves over crust; spread topping over preserves. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely before cutting.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 145 calories, Fat 7g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 27mg cholesterol, Sodium 106mg sodium, Carbohydrate 19g carbohydrate (10g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 2g protein.