How About Them Apples?

No, seriously, how about them apples? I love a juicy, crisp, crunchy apple. I thought since apple season is approaching I would share with you one of my absolute favorite apple recipes that is not so common. Its one of those recipes that is that missing element, when you are like, "Hmmm...we need one more side item." Its perfect for that church potluck or family gathering where you are supposed to bring a side dish or salad. It is a recipe loved by the old and young alike and might even qualify as a dessert on the "yumminess scale." This recipe is also great to let your kids help out in the kitchen. Once you have cut up all the apples, let your little one pull up a chair and help you mix it all together and take a taste!

AUNT JAN'S TAFFY APPLE SALAD

6 cups of your favorite apple (I absolutely love honey crisp apples once they are available)

¾ c pineapple juice

(tip: I use a large can of pineapple in 100% juice and drain the juice to use which equals about 3/4 c!)

¾ c granulated sugar

1 ½ Tbsp flour

3 Tbsp white vinegar

12 oz cool whip

1 /2 c. dry roasted peanuts

1 egg at room temp already mixed in a small bowl

1. Combine in a saucepan pineapple juice, sugar, flour, vinegar, and egg (Tip-Blend the wet ingredients together first in a separate bowl, I even use a hand mixer, but you could use a whisk, and place the dry ingredients in the sauce pan. Then whisk dry and wet ingredients together before you heat them up. It helps to prevent lumps).
   

2. Heat at medium heat until thickened. Stir constantly so the mixture is well blended and not lumped. If the mixture becomes lumpy you can strain it or scoop out any clumps. Simmer for 5 mins until it becomes like pudding.
   

3. Set aside and let this cool completely (I even make this mixture the night before and place in the refrigerator to cool overnight).
   

4. Chop all the apples into small pieces (I like to peel my apples).
   

5. Fold into the apples the cooled mixture and the cool whip, alternating. Sprinkle chopped nuts on top. Chill in the refrigerator covered 3-4 hours and serve. You can eliminate the nuts or add caramel drizzle on top for added yumminess!