center comes out clean. Meanwhile, for filling, combine the 2 tbsp. sugar and cornstarch in a medium saucepan. Stir in orange juice or water, apricots, figs or dates, and raisins or currants. Cook and stir over medium heat till thickened and bubbly. Remove from heat. Stir in chopped walnuts or almonds and candied peel. Spread over the hot cookie. Bake 20 minutes or till filling appear set. Cool in the pan on a wire rack. Cut into squares. Drizzle with Powdered Sugar Icing. Makes 36 bars.