These oat muffins are loaded with bits of apple, cheddar cheese and pecans...and for a special touch, have an apple slice, dipped in butter and cinnamon-sugar, baked on top.

Apple-Cheddar Muffins

1/2 cup vegetable shortening
3/4 cup sugar - divided use
2 large eggs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup quick cooking oats
2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped pecans
3 apples, 1 diced, 2 thinly sliced
3/4 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup butter, melted

1. In a large bowl cream together shortening and 1/2 cup of the sugar. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Set aside.
2. Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; mix lightly. Gradually pour into shortening mixture; beating until blended. Stir in oats, cheese, pecans and the diced apple, mixing well after each addition. Gradually add milk, stirring until all the ingredients are just moistened.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease 12 muffin tins and fill each two-thirds full of batter.
4. In a shallow bowl combine remaining 1/4 cup sugar and cinnamon. Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat; remove from heat.
5. Dip apple slices into butter; and then into cinnamon/sugar mixture. Press an apple slice into the top of each muffin. Sprinkle with any remaining cinnamon/sugar.
6. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Makes 1 dozen muffins.