4 tart baking apples
3 tbsp. raisins
1/2 tsp. lemon rind (optional)
1/2 c. maple syrup
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (optional)
1/3 c. chopped pecans
3 tbsp. apricot preserves
1/2 c. water
2 tbsp. butter
1/4 tsp. ground cloves

Preheat oven at 375 degrees. Pare the top half of apples, remove cores. Stand fruit in an 8x8x2 inch baking pan. In a small bowl, combine pecans, raisins, preserves and lemon rind. Fill apples with mixture and pour water in bottom of pan. Cover with foil and bake for 45 to 55 minutes or until tender.

In a small saucepan, combine syrup, butter, cinnamon and cloves. Bring mixture to a boil. Place apples in individual dishes. Pour on hot maple sauce. Top with ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.