HARVEST OF THE MONTH: GRAINS GALORE!

This month in Montana, the Harvest of the Month is grains! Next time your active kids want a snack to keep them fueled up on the go, look to whole grains. They are nutritious and delicious! Whole grains are rich in fiber, many minerals, B vitamins, and folic acid. Whole grains consist of three parts: the bran, the germ and the endosperm. When grains are refined, the bran and germ and much of the fiber, protein and vitamins are removed, leaving only the starchy endosperm. Whole grains are rich in nutrients; the bran and germ help keep your body healthy and your skin glowing. Try our whole grain Oatmeal on-the-go Breakfast Bar to fuel your active kid’s lifestyle.

Oatmeal On-The-Go Breakfast BarServings18 bars

Ingredients
2 cups old fashioned oats
1 cup whole wheat flour
1 ½ tsp cinnamon
Pinch of salt
1 tsp baking powder
1 ½ cup milk (any kind of milk — rice, almond, soy, cow’s — will work) or water
¼ cup brown sugar
½ cup applesauce (or baked squash or pumpkin puree if available)
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla
¾ cup dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, blueberries, cherries, etc.) optional
½  cup nuts (walnuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, etc.) optional

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

2. Place the oats, flour, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder in a bowl and stir to combine.

3. In a separate bowl, mix the milk, applesauce, egg, sugar, and vanilla.

4. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stir to combine and then stir in the dried fruits and nuts.

5. Pour the oatmeal mixture into a greased 9 x 11 inch baking dish.

6. Bake for 30 minutes or until thickened and golden.

7. Cool, cut into squares, and serve. Refrigerating: allow to cool, cut into squares, place in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 5 days. Freezing: allow to cool,cut into squares, and place in a plastic bag to freeze up to 4 months. When ready, allow to defrost in fridge for 24-48 hours.