Ingredients

• 1 cup quick oats
• 1 1/2 cups apple juice
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup toasted wheat germ
• 3/4 cup shredded sweetened coconut, divided
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 2 cups grated carrots
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F Grease a 13-by-9-inch baking pan.

2. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine oatmeal and apple juice. Cover and heat on high 2 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes.

3. Combine flour, wheat germ, 1/2 cup coconut, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, applesauce, carrots and eggs. Fold into flour mixture. Add oatmeal mixture and stir until just blended.

4. Spoon into baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup coconut. Bake 50 to 60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool and cut into bars.