Warm Apple Compote with Vanilla Cream

• 2 cups apple cider
• 2 Tbs. packed dark brown sugar
• 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 6 Golden Delicious apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 1-inch pieces (about 6 cups)
• 1/2 cup plus 1 tsp. granulated sugar
• 1 cup golden raisins
• 1 cup heavy or whipping cream
• 1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
• Freshly grated nutmeg (optional)

In a small saucepan, combine the cider, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat and reduce by half, about 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, melt the butter in a sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the apples and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup of the granulated sugar and cook, stirring frequently, until the apples are very soft and nicely browned, about another 10 minutes. Add the raisins and cook for 3 minutes. Toss the apple mixture with the cider reduction. Set aside to cool slightly.

With a stand mixer fitted with the whip or with an electric mixer, vigorously beat or whip the cream, the remaining 1 tsp. granulated sugar, and the vanilla until it has the consistency of a thick milk shake. To serve, spoon the compote into glasses and spoon the thickened cream over it. Dust with the nutmeg, if you like.