Baked Apples with Fresh Figs and Vermont Maple Syrup
Green Mountain at Fox Run (Vermont)
(Makes 4 servings)

Ahhh…the fall holidays. Time to make the trip to see the colors and time to visit the apple orchard to pick (or just buy) delicious, fresh, crispy apples. We all probably have our favorite apple recipes, but the great thing about this one is that it takes only 10 minutes or so to make! You don't need to tell anyone how easy it is. Just serve…and enjoy the compliments!

4 crisp, tart apples*
2 tablespoons Vermont maple syrup
1 ripe fresh fig
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon chopped pecans (optional)
Vanilla yogurt or light whipped cream (optional)

Core apples and pare a 1-inch strip of skin around the top or middle. (This helps prevent the skin from splitting). Peel and chop the fig and combine with syrup and cinnamon. Fill each apple with small amount of fig mixture. Place apples in a glass pie plate or other flat microwave-proof dish. Microwave on high for about 6-7 minutes, or until the apples are soft when pierced with a fork. Serve warm or at room temperature. For an added treat top with a dollop of vanilla yogurt or light whipped cream.

Note: If you make ahead and want to serve warm, reheat in the microwave-about 30 seconds per apple.

Conventional oven method: Heat oven to 375 degrees. Pour about ¼ inch of water into baking dish. Bake about 35 minutes or until apples are tender when pierced with fork.

*Use your local favorites such as Jonathan, Cortland, Macintosh -a favorite here in Vermont - or Minnesota's favorite-Haralsons.

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