Apricot Hazelnut Energy Bars

Apricot Hazelnut Energy Bars
500 grams dried apricots
2 cups boiling water
1 cup pitted dates
1 1/2 cups rolled oats, toasted if desired
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup hazelnuts, roasted if desired

In a medium-sized bowl, pour the water over the apricots and allow to soak and soften for at least eight hours. 
Line a 9x9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
In a food processor, purée the apricots and water with the dates until smooth. Transfer to a medium saucepan and boil over medium heat for about ten minutes, stirring often, until dry and very thick.
Add oats, salt, and spices and cook for about ten minutes more, until it becomes a stiff, solid mass. Fold in hazelnuts. 
Spread in prepared pan and allow to cool.

These are easy, no-bake energy bars with plenty of flavor and texture and lots of nutrition.
The fruit and nuts may be varied as desired, and a cup of chopped chocolate may be added along with the hazelnuts.
These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one month.
Makes about sixteen bars.