P25 Da eer 232 Raising The Bar On Holiday Desserts These delicious, cherry-filled oatmeal bars are easy to make. (NAPSA)—An easy way to add color, flavor and fun to many desserts and snacks can be with maraschinocherries. Keep a jar or two on hand to add a festive touch to many holiday favorites, such as pound cake, thumbprint cookies or these delightful treats: Chewy Cherry Bars Crust: 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup quick-cookingor oldfashioned oats 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar 1 teaspoon baking soda \% cup butter, softened Filling: 2 eggs 1 cup lightly packed brown sugar % teaspoon vanilla extract 2 tablespoonsall-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 cup coconut 2 10-oz. jars maraschino cherries, drained and coarsely chopped Y% cup chopped pecans For the crust, combine flour, oats, brown sugar and baking soda in mixing bowl. Cut in butter until crumbly. Press into a 18x9x2-inch baking pan. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 10 minutes. For the filling, beat eggs, brown sugar and vanilla together thoroughly. Combine flour and baking powder; stir into egg mixture, mixing well. Stir in coconut, maraschino cherries and pecans. Spread evenly over crust. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 25 minutes or until lightly browned.Let cool completely. Drizzle with icing, if desired. Makes about 4 dozen bars. Free Recipes Visit www.nationalcherries.com for more recipes and information.
