Preheat oven 350 °F (180 °C).

In medium mixing bowl, combine apples, raisins, 2 tbsp (30 mL) brown sugar, vanilla extract and cornstarch, toss gently, yet thoroughly until cornstarch is dissolved. Place in a 11 x 7-inch (28 x 18-cm) baking dish and set aside.

Place gingersnaps in small plastic resealable bag. Using back of spoon or meat mallet, crush cookies to coarse texture. Place in small mixing bowl and add remaining ingredients, except syrup. Stir to blend thoroughly and sprinkle evenly over fruit.

Bake, uncovered, 45 minutes or until fruit is bubbly. Remove from heat, drizzle syrup evenly over all and let stand 10 minutes to absorb flavours. Store cooled leftovers covered with plastic wrap in refrigerator up to two days.