In a small bowl, pour bourbon over dried apricots. 2. Scrub sweet potatoes and pierce each in several places with a fork. Bake in a 350° oven about 1 1/2 hours. Let stand until cool enough to handle, about 20 minutes. Peel the sweet potatoes and place in a large bowl. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, butter, and vanilla to the bowl and mash with a fork until mixture is only slightly chunky. Stir in apricots, salt and bourbon. Spoon into a shallow 2 1/2-quart baking dish and spread level. Bake, uncovered, until hot in the center, about 30 minutes. Serve warm.