Try Joan's Recipe For:

Maple Walnut Bars

1/2 cup sugar
1 stick salted butter, softened
1 egg
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
2/3 cup flour
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

 Preheat oven to 350º F.

 Cream together the sugar and butter, in a large mixing bowl, until smooth.

 Beat in the egg and vanilla.

 Blend in the remaining ingredients.

Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9-inch square pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center springs back when touched by your fingers. Cool to room temperature, cut into bars and serve.

Makes 9 bars

Cook's Tips

Cream the butter and sugar using the paddle attachment to an electric mixer. This beats in air that gives a nice texture.

Do not use instant oatmeal; it gives a mushy texture. Rolled oats are much healthier, as well.

Use grade B dark amber maple syrup; it has a more pronounced maple flavor and seems less sweet.

Add to the batter 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and/or 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Allspice and mace are good additions, too.