8 apples
4 tbsp. water
6 tbsp. light brown sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1 c. plus 5 tbsp. sifted flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c. shortening
1/2 c. sugar
3 eggs

Pare, core, and slice apples into large, shallow pan. Sprinkle with water, brown sugar (which has been firmly packed when measured), and spices. Cover pan tightly and steam apples over medium heat about 7 minutes or until just tender. Meantime, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Cream shortening with sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time. Gently stir in flour mixture. Spread half the batter in buttered 8 inch square pan. Cover with the cooked apple slices; top with remaining batter. Bake at fairly low heat (325 degrees) about 1 hour. Serves 6 to 8.