Apricot Almond Cream Cheese Squares

I got this recipe from my girlfriend, after tasting this at her house party, i have been making these bars ever since, they are so delicious, and very rich, also, i have made these for parties, cut them small and served them in tiny muffin cups....i have never had any leftover. Also, i have used this base mix recipe, omiting the preserves of course, in lots of other recipes that call for a base, it always turns out flakey and light, with a wonderful buttery taste! (note: prepare ahead, these squares have to stay in the fridge overnight)

Steps

Set oven 350 degrees.

Set rack to second lowest position.

Butter a 13x9 baking pan.

In a bowl , combine cake mix and melted butter.

Mix at low speed until crumbly.

Stir in almonds.

Reserve 1 cup base mixture.

Press remaining mixture in bottom of greased pan.

Carefully spread 1-1 / 2 cup preserves over base.

In another bowl , beat cream cheese , sugar , flour , salt , vanilla and egg until well blended.

At low speed , mix in 1 / 3 cup preserves.

Carefully spread mixture over base.

Combine reserved 1 cup base mixture and coconut.

Sprinkle over filling.

Bake for 30-40 mins , or until very lightly golden brown , and center is set.

Cool , and then refrigerate overnight.

Cut into small squares.

Ingredients

yellow cake mix, butter, almonds, apricot preserves, cream cheese, sugar, flour, salt, vanilla, egg, coconut