On-the-Go Snack for Back-to-School: Oatmeal Fruit Bars

Here is an easy recipe for you to make with your child:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup quick oats
• 1-1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup Apple & Eve 100% Apple Juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 Golden Delicious apples, cored and finely chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped dried apricots
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions: Heat oven to 375 degrees. Grease a 9-inch-square baking pan. Combine dry ingredients — flour, oats, cinnamon, baking powder and salt — in medium bowl. Set aside. Cream butter in large mixing bowl with electric mixer. Add sugar, apple juice and vanilla; beat until fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time, until well combined. Scrape down sides of bowl. Add dry mixture to the creamed ingredients. Beat on low until smooth batter forms. Stir in apples, apricots and cranberries or raisins. Spread batter in prepared pan; top with pecans. Bake in preheated oven 30 to 40 minutes or until center is firm and golden brown. Cool in pan. With serrated knife, cut into bars with serrated knife.