Apple Cinnamon Puffs

This recipe came from my sister-in-law many years ago, who happened to live in an apple orchard and served up the best apple dishes to all who stopped by.  I have made it on many occasions over the years, at times in large pans to feed a crowd.

• 6 large tart apples
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon red food colouring (optional)

1. Peel and thinly slice apples.
2. Place in a 9" x 12" greased baking dish.
3. Combine water, sugar and colouring and boil to a syrup (about 5 minutes) over medium heat.
4. Pour over sliced apples.
5. Top with cinnamon puffs (directions below) and bake at 375° for about 30 minutes.
6. Serve warm with premium vanilla ice-cream.

Cinnamon Puffs:

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup shortening
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1. Combine flour, baking powder and salt.
2. Cut in butter with pastry blender to form crumbs.
3. Stir in milk to make a soft dough.
4. Drop by spoonfuls on top of apples.
5. Combine melted butter, sugar and cinnamon for topping.
6. Make a dent in the top of each puff and spoon on a little topping.

Notes:  If the apples are rather slow-cooking, I place the pan in the oven for some fifteen or twenty minutes to pre-cook before topping with the cinnamon puffs.