Blackberry Breakfast Bars

Photo: flickr user S0MEBODY 3LSE

Ingredients

2 cups blackberries or raspberries fresh or frozen

2 tablespoons sugar

2 tablespoons water

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup quick-cooking rolled oats

2/3 cup brown sugar - (packed)

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 cup margarine or butter melted

Preparation

For filling, in a medium saucepan combine berries, sugar, water, lemon juice and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for about 8 minutes or till slightly thickened, stirring frequently. Remove from heat.

In a mixing bowl stir together flour, oats, brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and baking soda. Stir in melted margarine or butter till thoroughly combined.

Set aside 1 cup of the oat mixture for topping. Press remaining oat mixture into an ungreased 9- by 9- by 2-inch pan. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 20 to 25 minutes.

Carefully spread filling on top of baked crust. Sprinkle with reserved oat mixture. Lightly press oat mixture into filling. Bake in the 350 degree oven for 20 to 25 minutes more or till topping is set. Cool in pan on a wire rack. Cut into bars.

This recipe yields 18 bars.

Comments: These bars are not only an exceptional way to start the day, but they're also great for the fast break - a quick energy snack between all those summer activities.

Yield: 18 bars