Apricot Oatmeal Crumble Bars (Print)

Buttery oats and apricot preserves join in golden bars with a tender crumb and soft, fruity center.

# Ingredients:

→ Base and Crumble

01 - 115 grams unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
02 - 110 grams packed brown sugar
03 - 0.25 teaspoon baking soda
04 - 125 grams rolled oats
05 - 95 grams all-purpose flour

→ Filling

06 - 320 grams apricot preserves

# Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 177°C and coat an 20x20 cm or 23x23 cm 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, or fingertips until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
03 - Measure out 2 cups of the oat mixture and press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
04 - Spread the apricot preserves evenly over the crust, leaving a 0.5 cm border around the edges.
05 - Evenly distribute the remaining oat crumble over the apricot layer. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
06 - Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 9 portions and serving.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Allow bars to cool fully before slicing for a firmer texture. Substitute any variety of fruit preserves as desired.