Spiced Apple ‘n’ Oat Squares [Video]

Delicious and nutrition packed, these squares are a cross between a date square and apple crisp.

Baking Time: 20 to 22 minutesPreparation Time: 15 minutesCooking Time: 20 minutesSquares: 16

Ingredients

• 1-1/4 cups (300 mL) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (250 mL) quick-cooking (not instant) rolled oats
• 1 cup (250 mL) packed brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) baking soda
• 3/4 cup (175 mL) butter, softened

Apple Filling:

• 6 cups (1.5 L) diced (1/2 inch/1 cm) peeled Ontario Apples (McIntosh, Empire or Idared)
• 3/4 cup (175 mL) packed brown sugar
• 3/4 cup (175 mL) Ontario Apple Cider or water
• 1-1/2 tsp (7 mL) ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp (2 mL) ground nutmeg
• Pinch ground cloves

Instructions

In large bowl, mix together flour, oats, sugar and baking soda. Cut in butter with pastry blender until crumbly. Firmly press 3 cups (750 mL) into 9-inch (2.5 L) square cake pan. Reserve remaining crumbs for top.

Apple Filling:In large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine apples, sugar, cider, cinnamon, …