Fig Oatmeal Squares

Ingredients

• 8 oz Calimyrna or Mission dried figs,
• finely chopped (about 1 1/4 cups/300 mL) 250 g
• 1 cup granulated sugar 250 mL
• 2 tsp grated orange rind 10 mL
• 1/4 cup each: orange juice, water 50 mL
• Base and Topping:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 375 mL
• 1 1/2 cups quick-cooking oatmeal (not instant) 375 mL
• 1 cup packed brown sugar 250 mL
• 1/2 tsp baking soda 2 mL
• 1/4 tsp salt 1 mL
• 1 cup TENDERFLAKE® Lard, softened 250 mL

Preparation

1. Combine in large saucepan, figs, sugar, orange rind, juice and water. Bring to boil over high heat. Reduce to low heat; simmer, stirring, 10 minutes or until figs are softened. Let cool 15 minutes.
2. Combine in large bowl, flour, oatmeal, sugar, baking soda and salt. With pastry blender or two knives, blend in lard until mixture resembles small peas.
3. Pat half of mixture into 9-inch (23 cm) square baking pan. Spread filling over base. Sprinkle remaining oatmeal mixture over top; pat lightly. Bake in 350°F (180°C) oven 30 to 35 minutes, or until lightly browned. Let cool.