ALMOND FIG BARS

1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 Tbsp canola oil
1 tsp. almond extract
1 tsp. orange zest
2/3 cup chopped dried figs
1/3 cup chopped toasted almonds
Canola oil spray
3/4 cup whole-wheat flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/4 tsp. salt
1 large egg
1/4 cup honey

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly coat an 8-inch square baking pan with canola oil spray.

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside.

In a medium bowl, stir together the egg, honey, applesauce, canola oil, almond extract and orange zest. Gently stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until mixed. Stir in the figs and toasted almonds. Spread the mixture into the prepared pan.

Bake about 25 minutes, until a tester inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the bars in the pan on a wire rack.

Cut into sixteen 2-inch squares. Store in a tightly covered container for two to three days.

Makes 16 servings

Per serving: 90 calories, 3 g total fat (0 g saturated fat), 15 g carbohydrate, 2 g protein, 2 g dietary fiber, 80 mg sodium.

Source: the American Institute for Cancer Research