Pouding Chômeur with Caramelized Apples

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.

In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg, then gradually add milk.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples and brown sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened and caramelized (about 8-10 minutes). Sprinkle with cinnamon.

In an 8x8 inch baking dish, combine maple syrup, water, and butter (for the sauce).

Spoon the caramelized apples evenly over the syrup mixture in the baking dish.

Carefully spoon the cake batter over the apples.

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let cool slightly before serving. The sauce will be thin and syrupy.

Serve warm, optionally with a drizzle of extra maple syrup.