step 1Heat oven to 350 degrees F.
step 2Butter baking dish.
step 3Peel the top third of the apples and scoop out the apple core with a melon baller or teaspoon, making sure not to go through the apple bottom. Place, peeled end up, in buttered baking dish. Brush apples with lemon juice.
step 4Mix the walnuts, dried cranberries, cinnamon, brown sugar and salt in medium bowl. Spoon the mixture into the center of each apple, letting some spill generously over the top.
step 5In small saucepan over a high heat, combine the cider (or water) and honey and bring to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes and then pour the mixture over apples. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, basting frequently with remaining cider-honey mixture in the baking dish. Note: when they’re done, the apples should be very soft when pierced with the tip of a knife.
step 6Remove the apples from the oven and set aside to cool slightly and let the juices settle, about 10 minutes. Serve the apples on plates; the remaining glaze from the baking pan can be served on the side or drizzled on top of the apples, as desired.
Variation
To cook the apples in your microwave, place them in a covered microwave-safe bowl and cook on high for 8 to 10 minutes, checking after 6 minutes. When done, apples should be very tender when pierced. To reheat them the next day, microwave for 1 minute on high. Then serve with oatmeal for a delicious breakfast.