Blueberry Walnut Bars Recipe

By littlefish

With power-packing oats, walnuts and blueberries, kids aren't the only ones that are going to love this sweet treat. Health-minded parents can feel good about these bars, too. Dawn Onuffer - Crestview, Florida

Ingredients

• 2/3 cup ground walnuts
• 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons plus 1/3 cup sugar, divided
• 1/3 cup old-fashioned oats
• 3 tablespoons reduced-fat butter, melted
• 1 package (8 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon orange juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup reduced-fat whipped topping
• 2 tablespoons blueberry preserves
• 1-1/2 cups fresh blueberries

Preparation

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine the walnuts, cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons sugar, oats and butter. Press onto the bottom of an 8-in. square baking dish coated with cooking spray.
Bake at 350° for 9-11 minutes or until set and edges are lightly browned. Cool on a wire rack.
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and remaining sugar until smooth. Beat in orange juice and vanilla. Fold in whipped topping. Spread over crust.
In a microwave-safe bowl, heat preserves on high for 15-20 seconds or until warmed; gently stir in blueberries. Spoon over filling. Refrigerate until serving. Yield: 12 servings