Cheddar With Sauteed Apples and Brown Bread

Inspired by Cooking Light Magazine's recipe of the same name; I've made it several times and there's never any leftovers. It's a great appetizer that can be made low-fat and low-sugar with a few simple substitutions.

• Ready In: 15 mins
• Serves: 8
• Yields: 16 pieces

Ingredients

• 2  tart-sweet apples, each cored and cut into 16 wedges
• 1⁄3 cup sugar (optional)
• 1⁄4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1⁄8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1⁄8 teaspoon allspice
•  cooking spray
• 4  pieces  bread (preferably something dark and heavy)
• 4  ounces cheese, cut into 16 slices (extra sharp cheddar, or smoky low-fat cheese)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400° F (204° C).
2. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Place apples in a medium bowl; sprinkle with sugar and spices. Toss well to coat.
4. Coat the skillet with cooking spray.
5. Add the apple mixture, and cook 4 minutes or until thoroughly heated, turning frequently.
6. Remove from heat; cool slightly.
7. Cut each bread slice crosswise into 4 strips.
8. Arrange in a single layer on a baking pan. Bake for 5 minutes or until tops are toasted.
9. Turn strips over; bake for 3 minutes or until the tops are toasted.
10. Top with cheese and serve when slightly cooled.