Ingredients

1

tablespoon butter

1

teaspoon sugar

2

large firm apples (preferably Fuji or Braeburn), finely chopped (about 2 cups)

1

shallot, finely chopped

1

package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

4

oz (1 cup) crumbled blue cheese (preferably Maytag or Roquefort)

3/4

cup mayonnaise

3/4

cup sour cream

1/2

teaspoon salt

1/2

cup chopped pecans

40

slices French bread or crackers

Preparation

In 1-quart saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in sugar until it dissolves, about 20 seconds. Add apples and shallot. Cook 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mixture turns golden brown and aroma is reminiscent of apple cider. (Do not rush process; color takes a while to form, but the flavor is worth it.) Set aside to cool completely.

Meanwhile, in small bowl, mix cream cheese, cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream and salt until well blended. Gently stir in cooled caramelized apple mixture and the pecans. Refrigerate 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped pecans if desired. Serve with bread or crackers.