Apricot Bars

1 c White flour

1/3 c Brown sugar

1 ts Cinnamon

1/2 ts Baking powder

1/4 ts Salt

1 1/2 c Dried apricots

1 tb Walnuts, chopped

1 tb Cashews, chopped

1/3 c Maple syrup

-----------------------------------ICING----------------------------------- 1 c Icing sugar

2 tb Shortening

1/2 ts Vanilla

1 tb Apple juice

Sift together flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder & salt. Stir in the apricots & nuts. Add the syrup. Stir until the mixture forms a thick batter. Spread the batter into a lightly oiled 8" X 8" baking pan (it is hard work, but it will cover -- trust me!). Bake at 350F for 30 to 35 minutes or until the bars test done. Allow to cool slightly, cut into bars. When completely cool, spread with icing & drizzle some melted chocolate over the top if desired. ICING: Cream together sugar & shortening. Add remaining ingredients & beat until smooth. Makes 1/2 cup. Recipe by Mark Satterly