Ingredients
1/2 cup butter, softened3/4 cup sugar, divided1/2 cup packed brown sugar1 large egg1 teaspoon vanilla extract2 cups all-purpose flour1/4 teaspoon baking soda1/8 teaspoon salt1-1/2 cups finely chopped dried apricots or dates2/3 cup water1 tablespoon hazelnut liqueur, optional1 cup finely chopped pecans, optional
Preparation
In a large bowl, cream the butter, 1/2 cup sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla. In another bowl, mix the flour, baking soda and salt; gradually beat into creamed mixture. Divide dough in half. Shape each half into a thick rectangle; wrap in plastic. Refrigerate until firm or overnight.
In a small saucepan, combine the apricots, water, remaining sugar and, if desired, liqueur; bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to medium; cook until liquid is almost evaporated, about 5 minutes. Stir in pecans if desired; cool completely.
On a floured surface, roll each portion of dough into a 12x9-in. rectangle. Evenly spread half of the apricot mixture over each rectangle to within 1/2-in. of edges. Roll up jelly-roll style, starting with a long side; wrap in plastic. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until firm.
Unwrap and cut into 1/4-in. slices. Place 1 in. apart on greased baking sheets. Bake at 350° for 9-12 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool.
