Grease the 8x8 baking pan and set aside. Preheat the oven to 350. Mix flour together with baking soda and salt and set aside.

Cream softened butter, sugar and vanilla extract with an electric mixer on medium. Mix in the egg and egg yolk, one at a time. Then add the lemon zest and mix thoroughly. Add the flour mixture into the egg mixture on medium speed. Lastly, add the buttermilk and mix until batter is smooth.

Spread the batter evenly into the greased 8x8 baking pan with a spatula. Arrange apricots with the cut side down on top and press lightly down into the dough.

Bake at 350 degrees on the middle rack for 25 - 30 minutes, or until edges start to brown and a toothpick comes out clean.