I created this recipe one winter’s day and shared it with a friend. I’ve had many favorable comments from those who’ve sampled it since. Great apricot flavor and sprinkling of coconut make these bars special!
—BARBARA ROHLF SPIRIT LAKE, IA
PREP: 25 MIN. • BAKE: 25 MIN. + COOLING • MAKES: 2 DOZEN
1package (16 ounces) pound cake mix
4eggs
1/2cup butter, melted
2teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
1cup chopped dried apricots
1package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
2cups confectioners’ sugar
1/2cup apricot preserves
3/4cup flaked coconut
3/4cup sliced almonds
1. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, 2 eggs, butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla; beat until well blended. Fold in dried apricots. Spread into a greased 15x10x1-in. baking pan; set aside.
2. In another bowl, beat cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, preserves and remaining vanilla. Add remaining eggs; beat on low speed just until combined. Gently spread over cake batter. Sprinkle with coconut and almonds.
3. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack. Cut into bars. Store in the refrigerator.