Dried Apricot Bars in 50 Minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/4 cup sugar until smooth. Stir in the flour and salt until a soft dough forms.
3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the pan and bake for 12–15 minutes or until the edges are just barely golden.
4. While the crust pre-bakes, place diced dried apricots, water, and 1/4 cup sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 5–8 minutes until the apricots soften and the liquid reduces.
5. Stir in the cornstarch (dissolved in a teaspoon of water) and lemon juice. Simmer for 2 more minutes until the mixture thickens into a glossy jam.
6. Pour the hot apricot mixture over the pre-baked crust and spread evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake for another 15–20 minutes until the filling is bubbling around the edges and the crust is golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars.