Brandied Cranberry-Apricot Bars Recipe

In a 4-cup glass measure or microwave-safe mixing bowl combine raisins, cranberries, apricots, and brandy or water. Cover with mircrowave-safe plastic wrap; turn back a corner to vent. Cook in a microwave oven on high for 2 minutes. (Or, place fruit and brandy in a saucepan; bring to boil. Remove from heat.) Let stand for 20 minutes; drain.

For crust, in a medium mixing bowl stir together the 1 cup flour and 1/3 cup brown sugar. Cut in margarine or butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press into an ungreased 8x8x2-inch baking pan. Bake in a 350 degree F oven for about 20 minutes or until golden.

In a medium mixing bowl beat eggs with an electric mixer on low speed for 4 minutes; stir in the 1 cup brown sugar, the 1/2 cup flour, and vanilla just until combined. Add drained fruits and pecans; stir to mix. Pour fruit mixture over baked crust; spread evenly.

Bake about 40 minutes or until a wooden toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean, covering with foil the last 10 minutes to prevent overbrowning. Cool in the pan on a wire rack. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. To serve, cut into squares.

Makes 16 servings.

Make-ahead tip Store in airtight container in refrigerator up to 48 hours.