Apple Walnut Snack Cake

Makes 16 servings

Tart Michigan Apples and crunchy walnuts make these moist, whole grain snack cake a perfect snack for mid-morning coffee breaks or an energizing afterschool treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup wheat germ
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups peeled, diced tart Michigan Apples* (4 medium)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup canola oil
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat a 13×9-inch baking pan with cooking spray.

In a medium bowl stir together flour, wheat germ, soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt; set aside.

In a large bowl combine apples, sugars, oil, walnuts, eggs and vanilla. Add flour mixture and stir gently to blend all ingredients well.

Spread mixture into baking pan and bake for 35-45 minutes or until cake is slightly browned and the center springs back when lightly touched.

Cool bars in pan then cut into 16 bars.

Nutrition information per serving: Calories: 277, Fat: 12.4g, Carbohydrate: 39g, Protein: 4.5g, Fiber: 3g, Sodium: 305mg

*Michigan Apple suggestions: Braeburn, Cortland, Empire, Gala, Ida Red