3/4 c. dried apricots
1/4 c. orange juice
1/2 c. boiling water
Peel from 1/2 orange
1/2 c. raisins
1 3/4 c. presifted flour
3/4 c. sugar
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 egg, beaten
2 tbsp. vegetable oil or melted shortening

Preheat oven to 350°F. Soak apricots in boiling water for a half hour; cool to lukewarm. Grind the soaked drained apricots, peel from a half an orange, and raisins. Blend or sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Add ground fruit; combine to coat the fruit. Make a well in the center. Add beaten egg, orange juice, water mixture and vegetable oil or melted shortening. Mix only until combined. Pour into a greased 9 x 5-inch loaf pan. Let stand 20 minutes.

Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 50 to 60 minutes.

When loaves contain dried fruit, they slice more easily on the second day and often flavor improves as well, so it is a great idea to bake ahead.