Fruit & Nut Squares

AprilShowers's Note:

These are fabulous!! And full of good stuff for you! I use organic, unsulphured dried fruits in my bars. I also use local, raw honey, but Agave can be substituted for the honey if desired. And sometimes I substitute raisins for the dried cherries. Either way, soooo good!

• Total Time: 40 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins

Ingredients:

Serves: 6

Yield: 1.0 pan

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 5 tablespoons honey
• 1 egg
• 1 cup ground almonds
• 1 cup dried apricot , finely chopped
• 1⁄3; cup dried cherries
• ½ cup walnuts , chopped (hazelnuts or pecans may also be used)
• 1⁄8; cup sesame seed
• 1 cup rolled oat

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350. Lightly grease shallow 7" square baking pan with butter.
2. Beat the butter in a bowl with honey until creamy.
3. Add egg and ground almonds.
4. Add remaining ingredients and mix together.
5. Press mixture into prepared pan, ensuring it is firmly packed, and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes in preheated oven until firm to the touch and golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let stand for 10 minutes before marking the squares. Let stand until cold before removing from the pan. Store in an airtight container.
8. Enjoy!