Cherry Bars Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 cup unbleached white flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 cups oat flakes
• 1 cup cherry spread (preferably Double Fruit)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly butter a 13″ x 9″ (33 cm x 23 cm) baking pan.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, beating until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, unbleached white flour, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed. Stir in the oat flakes using a wooden spoon.
4. Assemble the Bars: Reserve 1/2 cup of the oat mixture. Press the remaining mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Spread the cherry spread over the oat mixture in an even layer. Sprinkle the reserved oat mixture over the top.
5. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned. Once done, transfer the pan to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely.
6. Serve: Once cooled, cut into bars and serve. Enjoy!

Note:
This recipe is adapted from “Our 200 Best Desserts and Cookies” by Coup de pouce, Les Éditions Transcontinental.