Apricot Oatmeal Crumble Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
02 - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
03 - 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 1 1/4 cups rolled oats
05 - 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
06 - 1 cup apricot preserves

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and coat an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
02 - In a mixing bowl, blend softened butter, brown sugar, baking soda, rolled oats, and flour together using a pastry cutter, fork and knife, or your fingertips until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
03 - Measure out 2 cups of the oat mixture and firmly press it into the bottom of the prepared dish to form an even crust.
04 - Carefully spread apricot preserves evenly over the crust, leaving a 1/4-inch border from the edge.
05 - Distribute the remaining oat crumble evenly on top of the apricot filling. Bake for 30–35 minutes until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
06 - Allow bars to cool completely in the pan, then slice into 9 portions and serve.

# Notes:

01 - For a firmer bar, allow to cool fully before slicing. Substitute other fruit preserves for variety.