Recipe: Blackberry Breakfast Bars (with oat crust and topping)

BLACKBERRY BREAKFAST BARS
"These bars are not only an exceptional way to start the day, but they're also great for the fast break - a quick energy snack between all those summer activities."

2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries or raspberries
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, divided use
1 cup all purpose flour
1 cup quick cooking rolled oats
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/8 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup margarine or butter melted

TO PREPARE THE FILLING:
In a medium saucepan combine berries, sugar, water, lemon juice and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for about 8 minutes or till slightly thickened, stirring frequently. Remove from heat.

TO PREPARE THE OAT MIXTURE:
In a mixing bowl stir together flour, oats, brown sugar, the remaining teaspoon cinnamon, and baking soda. Stir in melted margarine or butter till thoroughly combined.

Set aside 1 cup of the oat mixture for topping. Press remaining oat mixture into an ungreased 9x9x2-inch pan.

Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 20 to 25 minutes.

Carefully spread filling on top of baked crust. Sprinkle with reserved oat mixture. Lightly press oat mixture into filling.

Bake in the 350 degree F oven for 20 to 25 minutes more or till topping is set. Cool in pan on a wire rack. Cut into bars.

Makes 18 bars
Source: Oregon Raspberry and Blackberry Commission