Vanilla-Fruit Compote

Ingredients

• 24 bite-size pitted prunes (dried plums) (about 1/4 pound)
• 1 (8-ounce) package dried peaches
• 1 (6-ounce) package sliced dried apples
• 1 (6-ounce) package dried apricots
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced and seeded (about 4 ounces)
• Cooking spray
• 1 (2-inch) piece vanilla bean, split lengthwise or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups apple juice
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar

Preparation

1. Combine the first 5 ingredients in a 2-quart casserole coated with cooking spray. Scrape seeds from vanilla bean. Add seeds and bean or extract to dried fruit; toss gently, and set aside.
2. Combine the apple juice, water, and sugar in a medium saucepan, and stir well. Bring to a boil, and cook for 30 seconds. Pour over dried fruit mixture. Cover with casserole lid, and chill for 8 hours.
3. Bake, covered, at 375° for 30 minutes, stirring after 15 minutes. Discard vanilla bean. Serve warm or chilled.