1/2 c. granulated sugar
3/4 c. packed brown sugar
1/2 c. natural applesauce
7 tbsp. butter, softened
1 tsp. vanilla
3 egg whites
1 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 c. whole wheat flour
1/4 c. wheat germ
1/4 c. oat bran
1 c. whole wheat-bran flake cereal, slightly broken
1/2 c. chopped nuts, optional
3/4 c. quick oats
3/4 c. coated chocolate candies
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix sugars and butter until smooth, then blend in applesauce, vanilla, and egg whites. Stir in combined flours, cereal, quick oats, baking soda, and baking powder. Mix in 1/3 cup chopped nuts (if desired) and 1/2 cup coated chocolate candies.

Spray 13 x 9 x 2 pan with non-stick cooking spray. Spread batter into pan. Sprinkle top with remaining nuts and coated chocolate candies. Bake until nicely browned, 35 to 40 minutes, then cool. Cut into desired size bars and serve.