Apricot-Pecan Bread

Combine chopped apricot and warm water to cover in a large bowl; let stand 30 minutes. Drain apricot. Stir in pecans and 1/2 cup flour; set aside.

Beat butter at medium speed with an electric mixer 2 minutes; gradually add sugar, beating well. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating after each addition.

Combine remaining 3 1/2 cups flour, baking powder, soda, and salt. Add to butter mixture alternately with orange juice, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Stir in apricot mixture.

Spoon into 2 greased and floured 8- x 4-inch loafpans; let stand at room temperature 20 minutes.

Bake at 350° for 1 hour or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans on a wire rack 10 to 15 minutes; remove from pans, and cool completely on wire rack.