Cherry Oat Bars

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.

Cherry Oat Bars

Average Rating: 4.25

TOTAL TIME: Prep: 30 min. Bake: 25 min. + cooling
YIELD: 2 dozen.

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

Instructions

  • 1. 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.
  • 2. 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.
  • 3. Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack. Cut into bars.

Nutrition Facts

1 bar: 268 calories, 13g fat (6g saturated fat), 38mg cholesterol, 218mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (21g sugars, 2g fiber), 4g protein.