Soft Granola Bars

1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
1 cup vegetable oil or flaked coconut
2 eggs
2 cups uncooked oatmeal
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup raisins or chopped dates
1 cup crushed walnuts, almonds or flaked coconut
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
Nonstick cooking spray

In a large mixing bowl combine brown sugar, oil and eggs by blending with a wooden spoon. Stir in oatmeal, whole wheat flour, baking soda, chocolate chips, raisins or dates, nuts or coconut, cinnamon, cloves and salt. Thoroughly combine all ingredients.

Spread some of the mixture in a 15 x 1-inch jellyroll pan that has been lightly sprayed with nonstick vegetable oil. Bake at 350 degrees F until the center is just set, about 18 to 22 minutes. Cool at least 15 minutes in the pan before repeating the baking process with the next batch. Drizzle with a Honey Glaze if desired.

Honey Glaze
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons butter

Heat honey and butter in a 1-quart saucepan over medium heat until the butter is melted. Stir, then drizzle over the baked granola bars. Cool slightly, then cut into 3 x 1-inch bars.