Slice Manic!

I'm not very good at waiting around. Especially "patiently" for our imminent arrival. Just got to do something to take the mind off. So baking was it!!

I went "slice manic"! Browsed my faithful old Donna Hay Modern Classics 2 and made 2 slice recipes from there. One was a yummy tangy Lemon Slice and yesterday, Strawberry Slice. Next when I get hold of some dried apricots and rolled oats, I'll make the Apricot Oat Slice. Of course, I'd hope to do it before our little one decides she's had enough of her cramp space in my tummy!

Loved how both the Lemon Slice and Strawberry Slice turned out. They both have different bases, but so apt for their individual toppings. I am not a big fan of desiccated coconut but mixed with egg and sugar and caramelized, the taste is sublime. Didn't take any pictures of the lemon slice, they vanished too quickly but managed to get a shot of the Strawberry Slice (adapted from the Raspberry Slice recipe).



Strawberry Jam Slice
(adapted from Donna Hay's Modern Classics 2)

125g butter, softened
1/3 cup caster sugar
1 cup plain flour, sifted
1 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 cup strawberry jam (or any other flavoured jam)
topping
1/2 cup caster sugar
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 cup desiccated coconut

Method:
1. Preheat oven to 180C. Process the butter, sugar, flour and baking powder in a food processor until combined. Add egg yolk and process until mixture forms a soft dough.
2. Press into a 20cm x 30cm slice tin lined with non-stick baking paper.
3. Bake for 12 - 15 mins or until the base is golden brown.
4. Allow to cool then spread with jam.
5. To make the topping, combine sugar, egg and coconut. Sprinkle over the jam, bake for 25 mins or until golden. Cool in the tin. Cut into slices. Makes 24 slices.