Fruit Squares with
Oat-Walnut Streusel

Name: Fruit Squares with Oat-Walnut Streusel
Yield: 15
Ingredients: 4 cups Dried fruit; 2 1/2 cups Water; 1/3 cup (or to taste) Honey; 2 1/2 cups Oat flakes; 2 1/2 cups Whole wheat flour; 1 cup Walnut crumbs; 1 cup Safflower oil; 2/3 cup Honey

March 30, 2006 Other Contributors

Fruit Squares with <br />Oat-Walnut Streusel

About

This recipe by Professional Baker Rebecca Comeau. is very versatile. The whole-wheat crust can be made wheat-free by substituting a different type of flour, such as spelt. The filling can be made with your favourite dried fruit or any combination of fruits you like. You could even use fresh fruit if you want; in this case you would need to reduce the amount of water in the recipe. If you prefer your squares less sweet you can reduce the amount of honey used in the filling. Folks on a plant-based diet may prefer to use an alternative liquid sweetener such as agave or brown rice syrup. Makes 15 squares.

Fruit Filling

Dried fruit		4 cups
Water		2 1/2 cups
Honey		1/3 cup (or to taste)

Ideas for dried fruit: apricots, dates, plums, figs. . . or any combination to your liking.

Crust

Oat flakes		2 1/2 cups
Whole wheat flour		2 1/2 cups
Walnut crumbs		1 cup
Safflower oil		1 cup
Honey		2/3 cup

Directions

Simmer or soak first three ingredients until soft and water is absorbed.
Mix crust ingredients and divide in half.
Press one half into greased or lined 9″ by 13″ pan, and top with fruit mixture.
Crumble remaining mixture on top, pressing lightly. Bake at 350 F until lightly browned (about 20 to 30 minutes).

Rebecca studied baking techniques at Algonquin College. She has worked with pastry chefs at the Fairmont Chateau Laurier and various other establishments in Ottawa.