Oatmeal Apricot Squares

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 2/3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 (15 ounce) can apricot preserves
• 1/3 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Preparation Time:

• 20 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 30-35 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the oats, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
4. Press half of the dough mixture into the prepared baking pan. Spread the apricot preserves evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the preserves, if desired.
5. Crumble the remaining dough mixture over the preserves.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and the edges are set.
7. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Nutritional Information (per square):

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 120mg
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 3g

Dish Characteristics:

• Chewy and flavorful
• Sweet and tangy with a hint of nuts
• Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dessert
• Easy to prepare and customizable with different toppings

User Comments:

• "These Oatmeal Apricot Squares are my go-to treat! They're so delicious and satisfying."
• "I love the combination of chewy oats and sweet apricots. It's a classic flavor combination."
• "These bars are perfect for busy mornings when I need a quick and portable breakfast."
• "I added some chopped pecans to the topping for an extra crunch."
• "I love that these squares are so versatile. I can customize them with different fruit preserves or nuts depending on my mood."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and oats.
• If you don't have apricot preserves, you can substitute any other fruit preserves or jam.
• Let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares to prevent them from crumbling.