Oatmeal Coconut Breakfast Bars the bars are a nice way to get kids (and grownups) to have a little extra nutrition from carrots, applesauce, and wheat germ. They’re like a dessert for breakfast. A real treat in the morning with coff ee, tea,

or milk, they also pack well for lunch boxes and hiking snacks.” from Trisha Kruse, Ea gle, Idaho

Serves 16

Ingredients:

1 cup quick- cooking oats

11⁄2 cups apple juice

11⁄2 cups all- purpose fl our

1⁄2 cup toasted wheat germ

3⁄4 cup shredded coconut

2 teaspoons baking powder

1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup packed brown sugar

1⁄2 cup applesauce

2 cups grated carrots

2 eggs, lightly beaten

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 13 x 9- inch baking pan.

2. In a micro wave- safe bowl, combine the oats and apple juice. Cover and heat on high for 2 minutes. Let stand for 10

minutes.

3. Combine the flour, wheat germ, 1⁄2 cup of the coconut, the baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. In

a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, applesauce, carrots, and eggs; fold into the flour mixture.

4. Add the oat mixture and stir until just blended.

5. Spoon into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with the remaining 1⁄4 cup coconut.

6. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool and cut into squares.

Notes and Tips:

Toasted wheat germ adds a nutty flavor and fiber to these bars. It’s also oft en enriched with vitamin E and folic acid.