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.