Spice Apple and Berry Slice

Usually when we buy a bag of gala apples, we would like to do more then just eating on its own. Here this Spice Apple receipe is a very easy to bake even for beginners. I tried step 3 of the method by using a mixer and the mixture turns out smooth. With the 2nd batch, I use a fork instead. It turns out better and the slice is not too soft. This treat afterall is not too sweet and yet healthy for all young and old to enjoy.

Ingredients:
3/4 cup (165g) caster sugar
1 star anise
1 cup water
3 apples, peeled, cored and cut into wedges
2/3 cup (100g) plain flour
1/4 cup (55g) brown sugar
1 1/4tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
60g chilled butter, cubed
1/2 tsp vanilla essence
1 egg
2/3 cup (165g) milk
75g fresh berries of your choice
icing sugar to dust (optional)

Method
1. Preheat oven at 180C. Line an 18x28cm slice pan or 8" square tin with baking paper.
2. Heat 1/2 cup caster sugar, star anise and water in a pan over low fire. Stir continuously until sugar dissolves. Turn up the fire and cook for 2 mins. Add apple and poach in sugar water for 5-7mins, until just tender. Drain and set aside.

3. Place flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon and remaining caster sugar in a mixing bowl. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Add butter one cube at a time, using a fork, until mixture resembles bread crumbs.
4. Add vanilla, egg and milk and mix until just combined. Do not overmix or the mixture will be too smooth.

5. Spoon mixture into prepared pan. Top with prepared apple wedges and berries. Bake for 35mins until golden.

6. Allow to cool completelly in the pan. Cut into squares (you should have about 18 squares) and dust with icing sugar or vanilla ice cream before serving.

Tip: Make these slices a day ahead and store in the fridge. Reheat when ready to serve.