Glazed Oatmeal Bars

My mother was the queen of the bar cookie when I was a teenager.  I really resented the square cookie vs. the perfection of the round one, but as I have become my mother--a busy, running, striving-to-keep-kids-fed lady, I have come to appreciate the bar cookie as a friend.  Mix, bake, serve.  This has a cake-like texture and a yummy carmel tasting glaze on the top.



Glazed Oatmeal Bars

1 c. quick cooking oats

1 1/4 c. water

Combine these in a microwave safe dish and microwave on high for 1 min. 30 seconds.  Stir and set aside.

In a mixing bowl, combine:

1/2 c. softened butter or margarine

1 c. sugar

1 c. brown sugar

2 eggs

1 tsp. vanilla

Cream together.  Stir in the oatmeal.  Add:

1 1/2 c. flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. salt

Stir together.  Spread in a greased 10x15 pan.  Bake at 350 for 20 min., until golden brown.

Glaze:

6 Tbsp. butter/margarine

1/4 c. evaporated milk

1 c. brown sugar

1/2 c. coconut

Combine glaze ingredients in a small saucepan.  Bring to a boil, stirring constantly; boil, stirring for 1 min.  Spread over warm bars.

Notes:  I have used regular milk in the glaze, with good result.  My son doesn't like the coconut texture, and I am sure you could leave it out if desired. (I like it!) I am also at high elevation and find it best to boil my glaze for 2 min.

Jenny