1 teaspoon baking powder

Pinch salt

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

4 eggs

1 3/4 cups half and half

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Powdered sugar, for dusting

1. Heat the oven to 425 F. Butter a large baking dish (a 9-by-13-inch dish works well). Place the baking dish on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the apples on the bottom of the pan, and then mix with 2 tablespoons butter and 2 tablespoons sugar until nicely coated.

2. Bake for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally so that the apples cook evenly. Remove from the oven.

3. Meanwhile, combine the flour, baking powder, salt and cinnamon on a large sheet of wax paper. In a large bowl or in the blender beat the eggs with 3/4 cup sugar for a minute or until blended. Add the flour mixture, alternating with the half and half. Add the vanilla, and mix to combine.

4. Pour the batter over the fruit. Sprinkle with the remaining sugar. Bake for about 30 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. Serve immediately. This goes well with a dollop of whipped cream.

Advance preparation: This may be made two hours ahead through Step 1, covered and kept at room temperature. Preheat the oven just before baking.

(Diane Rossen Worthington is an authority on new American cooking. She is the author of 18 cookbooks, including "Seriously Simple Parties," and a James Beard Award-winning radio show host. You can contact her at www.seriouslysimple.com.)