Nutty Caramel Apple Crisp

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

Peel, core and slice apples, cut slices into quarters.

In large colander bowl, toss apples with 2 tablespoons of the brown sugar; let stand 5 minutes to allow apples to release some of their juices.

Coarsely chop cookies and peanuts. Place in a bowl with oats, remaining brown sugar and flour; mix well. Place butter in small microwave-cooker; microwave on HIGH 1 minute or until melted. Add butter to bowl and mix well.

Add peanut butter to apples if desired, tossing to coat evenly. Spoon apples into bottom of a square baker. Sprinkle crumb topping evenly over apple mixture. Microwave on HIGH 14-16 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 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender. Yields 12 servings.

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