Spicy Walnut Bars

Delight your taste buds with these spicy layer cookies. A rich crust coats the bottom while a sugary-sweet walnut and cinnamon topping melts over the top.

Recipe Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup quick cooking oatmeal
2/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup butter or margarine, chilled
2 large eggs
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup light corn syrup
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
3/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
3 tablespoons powdered sugar

Cooking Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl combine flour, oatmeal, first addition of brown sugar and baking soda. Cut in chilled butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press into bottom of an ungreased 9-inch baking pan.
3. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from oven.
4. Increase oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
5. In a medium bowl, blend eggs, second addition of brown sugar, corn syrup, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg and cloves. Stir in walnuts and melted butter. Pour on top of hot crust, spreading evenly.
6. Bake again for 20 minutes or until center is set. Cool completely, then sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Makes 16 bars.