Applesauce Bars with Old-fashioned Oats

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, old-fashioned rolled oats, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt until spices are evenly distributed.
3. Stir in the melted and cooled butter, light brown sugar, and unsweetened applesauce using a spatula until just combined.
4. Gently fold in the chopped walnuts. Stop mixing as soon as flour streaks disappear.
5. Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and use a spatula to press it evenly into the corners.
6. Bake on the center rack for 25 minutes, or until edges are mahogany-colored and pulling away from the sides, and the center springs back when touched.
7. Remove from oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
8. Optional: Beat softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread over cooled bars before slicing into 24 squares.