7 or 8 lg. tart cooking apples (8 c.)
1/2 c. apricot or other preserves
8 tbsp. butter, melted, divided
2 c. soft bread crumbs
1/2 c. sugar
1 tbsp. vanilla
Whipped cream, lightly sweetened, then flavored with rum (rum optional)

Peel core and slice apples 1/4 inch thick. In large bowl, combine apples, preserves and 4 tablespoons butter. Turn into greased 8x12 inch baking dish. Mix well remaining 4 tablespoons butter, the bread crumbs, sugar and vanilla. Sprinkle over apples.

Bake on top rack in unpreheated 325 degree oven until crumbs are browned and apples tender, about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Serve warm or chilled with whipped cream. Serves 8.

OVEN CUSTARD SAUCE:

1 or 2 eggs
1/3 c. sugar
2 tsp. potato starch or cornstarch
1/4 tsp. salt
1 1/2 c. milk
1/2 c. heavy cream or half & half
2 tsp. vanilla