Maple Apple-Raspberry Squares

Maple Squarres

• 3 cups quick-cooking oatmeal
• 3/4 cup maple sugar
• 3/4 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1 pinch salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed and tempered

Fruit filling

• 3 cups frozen raspberries, semi-thawed
• 3 apples, peeled, seeded, and cut into cubes
• 1/3 cup maple sugar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

Maple Squares

1. Preheat oven to 190° C (375° F), with rack in centre position.
2. Butter a 33 x 23 cm (13 x 9 in) rectangular pan.
3. In a bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Add the butter and blend into a homogeneous dough that sticks to the fingers when pinched.
4. Place half of the dough into the pan bottom and press down evenly. Set aside.

Fruit Filling

1. In a bowl, combine all filling ingredients, then spread onto the dough in the pan.
2. Cover with the remaining dough and press down lightly to spread it evenly.
3. Bake for about 50 minutes or until nicely browned.
4. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.