POACHED APPLES WITH MAPLE CREAM

4 large firm apples (such as Golden Delicious or Granny Smith)
1 cup maple syrup
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
1/2 cup light cream or half and half

Pare and core the apples.

In a saucepan combine the maple syrup and water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 3 minutes.

Add the apples and cover. Simmer until the apples are tender but not mushy; 3 to 8 minutes. With slotted spoon lift the apples on to individual dessert dishes or plates.

Boil syrup until reduced to 3/4 cup. Pour syrup in to a measuring cup.

Melt butter in a saucepan. Blend in the flour, cream and then the syrup. Boil uncovered until reduced to 1 cup; about 3 minutes.

Serve warm or at room temperature. Spoon syrup over and around the apples.

Servings: 4
Adapted from source: Old Fashioned American Desserts