Molasses Spice Bars

My goal was to create a slightly healthier breakfast treat by substituting oatmeal for most of the flour.  The oatmeal created a very dense and moist bar that we both enjoyed.  For me, the flavor is identical to a traditional crisp gingerbread man cookie.  Considering how fast they are disappearing, I think I’ll have to add this to my cookie/bar rotation.

Molasses Spice Bars
makes 20 squares

2 cups steel cut oats
1/2 cup AP flour
1/2 cup sugar
2 Tbsp cornstarch
1 Tbsp ginger, powdered
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp fine sea salt
2 large eggs
1/2 cup molasses
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 tsp vanilla extract

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F

Grind the steel cut oats in a food processor to the texture of fine cornmeal.  Pour oatmeal into a bowl and add the remaining dry ingredients.  Stir vigorously with a fork.  Add all of the wet ingredients and stir briefly to combine.

Pour into a buttered 8 x 8 inch square baking dish.  Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes. For the nicest cut, let cool for 10-15 minutes before cutting into squares.