Apple Puff Bake

Directions

1. 1
   Set oven to 450 degrees.
2. 2
   In a small saucepan, heat water & 1/2 cup sugar to boiling; reduce the heat, simmer for 5 minutes.
3. 3
   Peel and core, and cut the apples in half; place in a shallow greased baking dish; pour the sugar mixture over the apples.
4. 4
   In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt; cut in the shortening with a pastry blender until crumbly.
5. 5
   Stir in the milk to make dough.
6. 6
   Top each apple half with a mound of dough (cover the apple well with the mound of dough).
7. 7
   Make a hollow in the center of each mound of dough.
8. 8
   Mix together the butter, remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar, and the cinnamon; spoon in hollows of dough.
9. 9
   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until apples are tender.