Niki’s Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

These firm, yet chewy bars, are balanced in nutrients, will hold up in your gym bag or purse, and don’t make a sticky mess of your hands when you are on-the-go.

Preparation: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: Makes 9 large bars

Ingredients:
¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup packed, brown sugar
¼ cup cup all-vegetable shortening
¼ cup unsalted butter
2 large eggs
½ tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp baking powder
1 ½ cups rolled oats
½ cup all purpose flour
½ cup all purpose wheat flour
1 scoop vanilla whey protein powder
¼ cup dried mixed berries
2 Tbsp shredded, sweetened coconut

Directions:
Heat over to 375 degrees. Lightly grease an 8x8 inch pan. In large bowl, cream sugars with butter and shortening on medium speed. Add eggs and vanilla, mix well. In a separate bowl combine remaining dry ingredients except for berries and coconut. Add dry ingredients to butter mixture and stir until moist. Add berries and coconut; stir. Spread cookie mixture in 8x8 pan and bake. Bake for 20 minutes. Do not overbake. Bars are ready when just set in the middle and light golden brown.

Nutrition facts:
291 calories, 36 gms carbs, 13 gms fat, 8 gms protein, 111 gms sodium, 15 gms sugar