Fitness Energy Bars

    

1 1/2 cup rolled oats

1 cup Kamut puffed cereal

1/4 cup sesame seeds

1 cup dried apricots

2 cups craisins

1/2 cup toasted wheat germ

Butter-flavored cooking spray

1 cup light corn syrup

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup peanut butter

1 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract

1/2 tsp. cinnamon

 

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Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Spread oats, cereal and sesame seeds in a 13" x 18" nonstick jelly roll pan.  Bake, stirring occasionally, until oats are toasted, about 15 minutes.

    Meanwhile, chop apricots; transfer to a large bowl.  Add craisins and wheat germ; toss with hands to mix.  Stir in hot oat mixture.  Lightly coat jelly roll pan with cooking spray.

    In a heavy saucepan over medium-high heat, combine syrup and sugar; bring to a boil.  Reduce heat to low, stir in peanut butter, vanilla and cinnamon.  Quickly pour syrup over oatmeal mixture and stir well.  With wet hands or spatula, immediately spread warm mixture into the jelly roll pan, pressing into a think, even layer.  Chill until firm, at least 4 hours.

    Cut into 2" x 3" bars.  Bars can be wrapped individually in wax paper or foil, or stored in an airtight container with wax paper between layers.  They can be refrigerated for up to 4 weeks, or frozen for longer storage.

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