6 med. apples (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious type)
1/4 c. sugar blended with 1/4 tsp. cinnamon (more, if needed)
2 tbsp. lemon juice
4 tbsp. (1/2 stick) melted butter

Quarter, core and peel the apples; cut the quarters into lengthwise thirds to make slices about 1/2 inch wide. Toss in a bowl with sugar, then lemon juice and finally with melted butter. Let sit 3-4 minutes to render juices and absorb flavor; taste and fold in more sugar, if needed. Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Turn apples into 6x9 inch baking dish and set in middle of oven, basting every 8-10 minutes with accumulated juices. Apples are done when slices are tender but hold their shape. They should color lightly and be perfectly delicious; baste with more seasonings if necessary.

If juices haven't reduced to a thick syrup, remove and boil down in a small pan; pour over apples. Serve as is or with heavy cream, sour cream, whipped cream, custard sauce or ice cream. Makes 3 cups. Serves 4.