Oatmeal Fig Bars

Great for a snack, a breakfast on the run, or a dessert, these lovely fig bars are nutritious and tasty!

Makes 9 medium bars.

Ingredients:

• 1 c chopped dry figs (stems removed)
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 1/2 c orange juice
• 1 1/2 c quick oats
• 1 c all purpose flour
• 1/2 c brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/3 c butter, melted and cooled
• 1 egg white, lightly beaten

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and butter a 9 x 9 x 2 inch baking pan.
2. In a small saucepan, place the chopped figs, orange zest and orange juice. Bring to boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer 5 minutes. Cool.
3. Place the fig mixture in a small processor or blender. Pulse until you have a smooth paste.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the oats, flour, brown sugar, baking powder and salt.
5. Add melted butter and egg white. Stir well to form a crumbly mixture.
6. Place half the crumbly mixture in the prepared pan and spread evenly. Press down to form a firm crust.
7. Spread all of the fig mixture on top.
8. Spoon the remaining crumbly mixture on top evenly and loosely. Press very lightly, so the top remains crumbly yet holds together.
9. Bake 20 minutes or until browned on top. Cool in pan. Cut in 3 rows across and 3 rows up and down.