OAMM Oatmeal On-The-Go Bars

Joshua is at the age now where he LOVES to help cook. Dan and I will announce loudly

"Where's my BBIIGGGGG HELPER?"

And Joshua will squeal with delight and come running to the kitchen saying

"Here I am!!"

Today was no exception!! We decoded to give some 'on the go' bars a try. Joshua was SO excited to get in the kitchen and help me out!! It is so much fun. Check it out! (This recipe came from OAMM (Once a month mom)

Joshua loved every min of it!! We altered the recipe (below) slightly (changes in blue) but I think they turned out delicious-however neither of my kids would eat them :( I think next time we are going to add Maple Syrup instead of the agave to make them a bit sweeter and use almond milk instead of cow's milk (these tasted like regular/plain oatmeal and my kids usually have something more added to theirs). Anyways, hope you enjoy!

Oatmeal On-the-Go Bars (Makes 18 Bars)

2 Cups Old Fashioned Oats

1 Cup Whole Wheat Flour

1 1/2 Tsp Cinnamon

Pinch of Salt

1 Tsp Baking Powder

1 1/2 Cup Milk (any kind of milk — rice, almond, soy, cow’s — will work) (used cow's milk)

3 Tbsp Agave (used 3 Tbsp of honey)

1/2 Cup Applesauce

1 Large Egg

1 Tsp Vanilla

3/4 Cup Dried Fruit (Cranberries, Raisins, Blueberries, and/or Cherries) (used raisins)

1/2 Cup Nuts (Walnuts, Sunflower Seeds, and/or Pepitas) (I did not add any nuts)

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

2. Place the first 5 dry ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine.

3. Mix the milk, applesauce, egg, agave, and vanilla in a separate bowl.

4. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stir to combine and then stir in the dried fruits and nuts.

5. Pour the oatmeal mixture into a buttered or greased 7 x 11 inch baking dish.

6. Bake for 30 minutes or until thickened and golden.

7. Cool, cut into squares and serve.

*Allow to cool, cut into squares and place in a ziploc bag to freeze up to 4 months. When ready, allow to defrost in fridge for 24-48 hours.

*Refrigerating the bars will make them last up to 5 days.