Nutty Apricot Bars

Directions

1. 1
   Cover apricots with water, and bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer, uncovered, 15 minutes or until tender.
2. 2
   Drain, reserving 1/4 cup liquid.
3. 3
   Coarsely chop apricots, and set aside.
4. 4
   Combine reserved apricot liquid and 3/4 cup sugar in a saucepan; simmer 5 minutes.
5. 5
   Stir in chopped apricots.
6. 6
   Cream butter; gradually add 1 cup sugar, beating at medium speed of an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
7. 7
   Combine flour, baking soda, and salt; add floured mixture to creamed mixture, mixing well (mixture will be crumbly).
8. 8
   Stir in coconut and pecans.
9. 9
   Pat about three-fourths of coconut mixture into and ungreased 13x9-inch pan.
10. 10
    Bake at 350F for 10 minutes.
11. 11
    Spread apricot mixture evenly over crust, spreading to within 1/4 inch from edge of pan.
12. 12
    Sprinkle with remaining coconut mixture.
13. 13
    Bake an additional 30 minutes.
14. 14
    Let cool in pan; chill.
15. 15
    Cut into bars.
16. 16
    Store in refrigerator.