Baked Apples

Now this recipe (even if I wanted to) is one I will never be able to share. I've been entrusted by a good friend who made these every year at Halloween since I met him doing A Christmas Carol in 2001. I can't believe it's been 11 years since I was rehearsing that show at Playcrafters. It was one of the most fun theatrical experiences I've had to date! I could go on about that show. My costume was out of this world, mainly because it was made from scratch just for me and I had a hand in designing it. Not to mention I was acting out the greatest Christmas story ever (in my opinion). Ohhhh, nostalgia. It's been two+ years since I've been onstage, and it really sucks. 

Back to baked apples! Ever since I had one of these delectable Autumn only treats, I knew I had to make one myself. FINALLY, ten years later, mi amigo sent me the recipe but asked me to keep it hush hush. So, with that said, I will say a really good apple, butter, cloves, cinnamon, and an indescribable vanilla sauce makes these soft, melt-in-your mouth apples the best fall recipe I've ever had. 

That said, my attempt went slightly awry. I chose a different apple than recommended because, for some reason, the store didn't carry the others. I chose Fuji if I recall correctly, and they didn't soften as well in the oven like the recommended type did. The original recipe practically falls apart on the fork, which is most of the fun.I think I got the vanilla sauce almost right, but it wasn't as creamy as the original.

I'm really proud of myself. I've definitely been faithful to the promise I made myself to make seasonal yummos this year. Loving Autumn, but Christmas is right around the corner!