Great apricot flavor and a sprinkling of coconut make these bars so special. A recipe that should be tried.

Ingredients: (Yield: 2 dozen)

• 1 package (16 ounces) pound cake mix
• 4 eggs
• ½ cup butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
• 1 cup chopped dried apricots
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• ½ cup apricot preserves
• ¾ cup flaked coconut
• ¾ cup sliced almonds

Method:

In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, 2 eggs, butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla; beat until well blended. Fold in dried apricots. Spread the batter into a greased 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pan; set aside.

In another bowl, beat the 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.

Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack. Cut into bars. Refrigerate leftovers.