Blackberry Breakfast Bars

2 cups fresh or frozen blackberries or raspberries
2 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup quick cooking rolled oats
2/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted

For filling, in a medium saucepan combine berries, sugar, water, lemon juice and teaspoon cinnamon. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for about 8 minutes or till slightly thickened, stirring frequently. Remove from heat.

In a mixing bowl stir together flour, oats, brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and baking soda. Stir in melted butter or margarine until thoroughly combined. Set aside 1 cup of the oat mixture for topping. Press remaining oat mixture into an ungreased 9-inch square pan. Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 20 to 25 minutes.

Carefully spread filling on top of baked crust. Sprinkle with reserved oat mixture. Lightly press oat mixture into filling. Bake in the 350 degree F oven for 20 to 25 minutes more or till topping is set. Cool in pan on a wire rack. Cut into bars.

Makes 18.