INGREDIENTS

1 (12-ounce) package STOUFFER’S® Harvest Apples
1 (18.25-ounce) package spice cake mix
1/3 cup water
1/3 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs
Garnish: walnuts

Rustic Apple Filling (recipe follows):
2 (12-ounce) packages STOUFFER’S® Harvest Apples
1/4 cup corn starch
1/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon butter or margarine

Cream Cheese Frosting (recipe follows):
1/4 cup butter or margarine, softened
6 ounces cream cheese, softened
5 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS

1. Thaw escalloped apples in microwave at MEDIUM (50% power) 5 to 6 minutes.
2. Combine apples, cake mix, and next 3 ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Beat at low speed with an electric mixer until blended; beat at medium speed 2 minutes. Pour into 3 greased and floured 9-inch cakepans.
3. BAKE at 350° F for 20 to 25 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. For Rustic Apple Filling: Thaw escalloped apples in microwave at MEDIUM (50% power) 5 to 6 minutes.
5. Combine apples and cornstarch in a medium saucepan, stirring well. Stir in sugar, cinnamon, and butter; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens. Cool completely.
6. Spread Rustic Apple Filling evenly between layers.
7. For Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat butter and cream cheese at medium speed with an electric mixer until blended. Gradually add sugar, and beat until smooth. Add milk and vanilla, beating until fluffy.
8. Spread Cream Cheese Frosting on top and sides of cake. Garnish if desired.

Makes 1 (3-layer) cake.