Apricot Crisp Bread

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, cold and cubed)
• All-purpose flour (1 cup)
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed)
• Rolled oats (1 cup)
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup)
• Lemon juice (1 tablespoon)
• Fresh apricots (4 cups, sliced and pitted)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a standard loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced apricots, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently to ensure the apricots are evenly coated, and set aside to marinate for about 10 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
4. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Spread half of the flour mixture into the greased loaf pan, pressing it down gently to form an even layer.
6. Arrange the marinated apricot slices on top of the flour mixture, ensuring an even distribution.
7. Sprinkle the remaining flour mixture evenly over the apricots, covering them completely.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apricots are tender and bubbling.
9. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This dish is delightful on its own or paired with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.