I created these mini snacks to resemble the popular fruit and grain bars you buy at the grocery store. But this homemade version is hard to beat; with it being so much more economical and fresh. For a different twist, trying using a different flavor of jam in the middle.

You will need:
3/4 cup quick-cooking oats
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
3 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 egg
1/4 cup applesauce
1/3 cup cold water
3/4 cup strawberry jam
GLAZE:
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
2 teaspoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step 1: Strawberry Oat Snack Bars

Step 1: Place the oats in a food processor. Mix for about 1 minute or until powdery and mixture resembles flour. Pour the powdered oats in a mixing bowl and add the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt and cinnamon.

Step 2: Mix in the melted butter, egg, applesauce, and water until a dough is formed. Divide the dough into 2 equal portions.

Step 3: Line a greased 8-inch square baking pan with wax paper. Grease paper again and press one portion of the dough into the pan. Spread jam over top of the dough.

Step 4: Coat a square of wax paper with cooking spray. Press remaining portion of dough into an 8 inch square; place this dough layer over the jam.

Step 5: Bake at 300 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned and filling is bubbly. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 2: Strawberry Oat Snack Bars

Step 6: To make the glaze combine all glaze ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Scoop glaze with a spoon and drizzle all over the top of the cooled bars. Let dry for a few minutes before you cut.

*Note: I cut mine into 9 squares, then cut each square in half to make 18 bars.