One of the beloved comfort foods. Apples or pears are lightly spiced, then baked tender beneath a layer of buttery crumbs.

Apple or Pear Crisp

4 medium-size Golden Delicious apples, or Anjou pears or Barlett pears or a combination (about 2 1/4 pounds), peeled, cored, and sliced

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

2 teaspoons lemon juice

1/2 cup water

1 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened

Lightly sweetened whipping cream for accompaniment (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place prepared apples or pears in a greased 8-inch square baking pan. Sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and water; mix lightly.
3. In a medium-sized bowl, mix sugar and flour. Using a pastry blender to cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs; evenly sprinkle crumbs over fruit mixture.
4. Bake for 1 hour or until fruit is tender when pierced and crust is lightly browned.
5. Serve with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream, if desired.

Makes 4 servings.