Healthy granola bars

I tried/sort of made up a new granola bar recipe today that I really liked. They are easy, chewy, healthy, and delicious! I found the original recipe at allrecipes.com but of course I couldn't leave it alone, I had to make it healthier and tastier :) Here is my recipe...

2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup wheat germ
1/4 cup ground flax seed
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 cup whole wheat flour
3/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
3/4 cup almonds, chopped
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup honey
1 egg, beaten
2 tsp vanilla

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease (or line with parchment paper) a 9x13 inch baking pan.
• In a large bowl have your 2 year old stir together the first 9 (dry) ingredients.

•  Make a well in the center and mix in remaining ingredients. If your 2 year old wants to sample the applesauce, let him :) 

• Spread and press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
• Bake for 30 minutes. Let cool for 10 minutes and cut bars while still warm.

As always, substitute whatever you want to in these granola bars. Any kind of dried fruit or nuts will work. Add chocolate chips or maybe even some peanut butter of you're feeling creative :)

Click here to see where I'll be linking up today.