Baked Apples Filled with Apricots and Figs

Baked apples stuffed with dried fruits are an alluring dessert, especially when sweet apple cider is used to plump the fruits. Honey makes a sparkling glaze for the apples. Of the many varieties available, wildflower honey has a flavor that best complements the dried fruits. Blueberry or raspberry honey works well, too. When choosing apricots, avoid the Turkish variety, as they are too sweet. California dried apricots, if available, are a good choice. Also look for fruits dried without the use of sulfur. Heap the filling high in each apple to create an attractive presentation.