Vanilla is a delicious, fragrant flavoring that’s oh-so-nice in oh so many desserts. It was considered an aphrodisiac by the ancient Aztecs, so if you’re looking for love, you may want to try out one of these tempting desserts.

Vanilla Apple Pudding

½ cup (1 stick) butter, softened

2 cups granulated sugar

2 teaspoons Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract

2 eggs

2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking soda

2 teaspoons cinnamon

4 cups coarsely chopped cored peeled apples

1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

½ cup firmly packed dark brown sugar

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 9x13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. Cream the butter, granulated sugar and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl using an electric mixer. Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Beat until the batter is fluffy. Add the flour, baking soda and cinnamon and mix well; the dough will be crumbly.

Add the apples and walnuts and mix just until incorporated. Press over the bottom of the prepared pan. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the top and press into the dough mixture. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Serve warm. Garnish with a dollop of Nielsen-Massey’s Signature Whipped Cream.

Serves 15