8 c. sliced, peeled, tart apples (about 6 medium)
2 1/4 c. packed brown sugar, divided
2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 c. butter, softened
2 eggs
2 c. all-purpose flour
1 c. finely chopped walnuts, divided
vanilla ice cream (optional)

Place apples in a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup brown sugar and cinnamon. In a mixing bowl, cream butter and remaining brown sugar. Add eggs. Stir in flour and 1/2 cup walnuts. Spread over apples. Sprinkle with remaining walnuts.

Bake at 350°F for 45 to 55 minutes or until the apples are tender. Serve warm with ice cream, if desired.

Yield: 12 to 16 servings.