As if by magic, this cake creates its own beautiful picture as it bakes. Spread a buttery dough into a tart pan or a pyrex dish and press cut apple halves into the top. As it bakes, the dough rises up to frame the apples.

Preparation time:   25 min Baking time:   30 min Oven temp:   425 degrees F

For 1 13-by-9-inch cake you will need: 3/4 cup butter or margarine 3/4 cup sugar 3 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 tsp. salt 5 Golden Delicious apples, pared and cored 2 Tbsp. melted butter or margarine 2 Tbsp. brown sugar, packed, to sprinkle on top

 

1. Cream butter and sugar and add eggs. Beat until light and fluffy. Add vanilla. Stir in flour and salt to make a smooth dough. 2. Spread into a buttered 13-by9-inch dish or 10 or 11-inch buttered tart pan with removable bottom. 3. Halve the apples. Make cuts in the apples 1/4-inch apart but not all the way through, so the halves still hold together. 4. Press the halves flat side down, making an attractive arrangement on the top of the batter. Brush apples with melted butter. Sprinkle with the brown sugar. 5. Bake at 425 degrees F for 30 min until cake is golden and apples are cooked through. Tips: This cake is best when served shortly after baking. Consider it for breakfast or brunch as well as for dessert. If using a pyrex dish, reduce oven temperature to 375 degrees F to 400 degrees F. Good served with: Whipped cream, flavored with powdered sugar and a little cinnamon.