While reviewing an excellent cookbook, Baking with Dorie, I ran across a recipe for oatmeal bars that didn’t contain the obligatory nuts or chocolate chips – just oatmeal, brown sugar, cinnamon, and allspice (an unusual spice for oatmeal cookies). I tried them and found that they were slightly chewy, not too sweet, with a subtle caramel flavor from the brown sugar. These Just Plain Oatmeal Bars are especially easy, and perfect for a cookie jar. They go well with ice cream at a backyard barbecue, are sturdy enough for picnics, and make a good snack.

The allspice is a different flavor, and if you prefer, you can substitute nutmeg or another traditional spice. You can also use English mixed spice if you have it.

24 Bars

1 cup flour
1/2 cup oatmeal
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon allspice

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

9 tablespoons softened butter, (1 stick plus 1 tablespoon)

Topping:
2 teaspoons sugar
2 tablespoons oats

1. Preheat oven to 350°.
2. Spray a 7" x 11" (or 9” x 9”) glass baking dish with non-stick spray.
3. Measure the flour, oatmeal, salt, cinnamon, and allspice into the bowl of a food processor; process until the oats are finely ground.
4. Add the brown sugar and pulse until the mixture is well-incorporated.
5. Add the butter and pulse until the mixture holds together.
6. Transfer to the prepared baking dish and press down; sprinkle with the topping ingredients.
7. Bake 20-25 minutes or until the edges begin to brown and the middle is just set.
8. Remove from the oven, let sit 5 minutes, then cut into squares (these bars must be cut while hot). Cool thoroughly.

Amount Per Serving
Calories 77 Calories from Fat 41
Percent Total Calories From: Fat 53% Protein 5% Carb. 43%

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Total Fat 5 g
Saturated Fat 3 g
Cholesterol 12 mg
Sodium 93 mg
Total Carbohydrate 8 g
Dietary Fiber 0 g
Sugars 0 g
Protein 1 g

Vitamin A 3% Vitamin C 0% Calcium 0% Iron 1%