Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray an 8" x 8" baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, cream together oil, 1/2 cup brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon.
Add baking powder, milk, and oats.
Stir until oats are well-moistened.
Stir in apples and pecans.
Pour into prepared pan.
Dot with butter and sprinkle with remaining 1 tablespoon of brown sugar.
Bake uncovered for 30 minutes until lightly browned.
Serve plain, or with milk or yogurt.
Notes: We double the recipe and put in a 9" x 13" pan. Add 10 minutes to cooking time if you double it.