CHERRY OAT BARS

Cherry Oat Bars image

The addition of dried cherries and cherry preserves make these homemade granola bars a hit with all who try them. Each bar provides both a sweet pick-me-up and lasting energy. -Kevin Johnson, Glendora, California

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 55m

Yield 2 dozen.

Number Of Ingredients 16

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups old-fashioned oats
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup toasted wheat germ
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup honey
2 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 jar (12 ounces) cherry preserves
1/3 cup dried cherries, chopped
1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut

Steps:

In a large bowl, combine the first nine ingredients. In another bowl, combine the butter, honey, eggs and vanilla. Stir into oat mixture until combined. Set aside 1-1/3 cups for topping., Press remaining oat mixture into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking pan. Combine preserves and dried cherries; spread over crust. Sprinkle with coconut and reserved oat mixture; press down lightly., Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack. Cut into bars.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 268 calories, Fat 13g fat (6g saturated fat), Cholesterol 38mg cholesterol, Sodium 218mg sodium, Carbohydrate 36g carbohydrate (21g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 4g protein.