Choose tart green apples for this homey apple pudding. Pippin, Gravenstein or Granny Smith apples all make a success of this dessert. It is tempting when served still warm from the oven.

5 lg. tart apples, peeled, cored, sliced
1 c. cottage cheese
3/4 c. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
2 eggs
1/2 c. half-and-half
6 whole cardamom
Whipped cream (optional)

Spread apple slices in a well-buttered 2 1/2-quart shallow baking dish (about 2 inches deep). In blender or food processor combine cottage cheese, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, eggs and half-and-half. Whirl or process until smooth. Pour mixture evenly over apples.

Split cardamom pods, removing seeds (you should have about 1/2 teaspoon). Discard pods. Sprinkle seeds evenly over apple mixture. Bake custard at 350 degrees for about 1 hour until apples are tender and top is golden brown. Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream, if you wish.