Step 1

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Generously coat an 8"X8" baking dish with cooking spray. Set aside. (If apples are large and do not fit, use a bigger baking dish.)

Step 2

Simple Cider Syrup: Combine the sugar, cinnamon, water, and apple cider in a small saucepan. Mix well and bring to a boil. Let boil, stirring often, for 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

Step 3

Pastry: In a large bowl, stir together the flour and salt. Using a pastry blender, cut in shortening until crumbs are formed and pieces are the size of small peas. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of water at a time over the flour mixture. Gently toss with a fork and push the moistened dough to the side of the bowl. Repeat until dough holds together. Divide into 4 equal portions, forming each into a ball, and flatten out to make 4 discs. Cover and set aside.

Step 4

Apple prep: Peel apples, cut them in half, and remove seeds. Place 1 teaspoon of butter into each of 4 apple half cavities. Divide cinnamon sugar evenly between apples, placing other half of apple on top of "filled" half. Press lightly together (butter should act as a "glue" to hold halves together). Set aside.

Step 5

To prepare pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll each douch disc into a circle about 1/8" thick. Place a filled apple in the center of each dough circle. Moisten the edges of the pastry with water and bring the dough up around the apples, being careful not to tear the pastry. Press edges together on top of the apple to seal.

Step 6

Place wrapped apples in the prepared baking dish. Gently pour cider syrup evenly over apples and sprinkle with sanding sugar.

Step 7

Bake for 55-60 minutes or until pastry is golden. Serve warm.