Nutty Caramel Apple Crisp

Source: The Pampered Chef

8 medium Granny Smith or Empire apples
1/2 cup packed brown sugar, divided
1 1/3 cups shortcake cookies (about 9), coarsely chopped
1/2 cup dry roasted, coarsely chopped
3/4 cup quick cooking or large flake oats
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted
1/3 cup creamy peanut butter (optional)
Vanilla ice cream or thawed, frozen whipped topping (optional)

Peel, core and slice apples using Apple Peeler/Corer/Slicer, cut slices into quarters.

In large Colander Bowl, toss apples with 2 tablespoons of the brown sugar using Mix 'N Scraper; let stand 5 minutes to allow apples to release some of their juices.

Coarsely chop cookies and peanuts using Food Chopper. Place in Classic Batter Bowl with oats, remaining brown sugar and flour; mix well. Place butter in Small Micro-Cooker; microwave on HIGH 1 minute or until melted. Add butter to Batter Bowl and mix well.

Add peanut butter to apples if desired, tossing to coat evenly. Spoon apples into bottom of Square Baker. Sprinkle crumb topping evenly over apple mixture. Microwave on HIGH 14 to 16 minutes, turning dish once halfway through, or until apples are tender. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped topping, if desired.

TIP: To prepare in conventional oven, preheat oven to 375 F. Prepare recipe as directed. Bake 35 to 40 minutes or until apples are tender. Yields 12 servings.

Per serving:269 calories; 3 g protein; 14 g fat; 36g carbohydrate; 155mg sodium