North Dakota Apricot Cheesecake

In a medium saucepan, combine dried apricots and 1 cup water. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer, covered, for about 10 minutes or until the apricots are soft and the liquid is almost absorbed. Remove from the heat and cool.

In a medium bowl combine together graham cracker crumbs, 1/3 cup sugar, and melted butter. Pat onto the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Place the apricot mixture and orange juice in a blender or food processor. Cover and blend until smooth.

In a mixing bowl, cream together using an electric mixer, cream cheese and 1 1/4 cup sugar, beat on medium speed until fluffy. Gradually add in eggs, beating on low speed until just blended. Using a large spoon or wire whisk, stir in the apricot mixture until mixed.

Pour the mixture into a graham cracker shell. Bake in a 375 degrees F oven for 30 minutes. Remove from oven and cool for 5 minutes on a wire rack.

In a small bowl, beat together sour cream and 1 tablespoon sugar. Spread evenly over the cheesecake. Return to the oven and bake for 5 minutes more. Cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Loosen the cheesecake from the sides of pan. Cool for 30 minutes more; remove from the pan, and cool completely. Chill at least 4 hours.

In a small saucepan, heat apricot jam until melted. Force the jam through a sieve and spread over the cheesecake.