Dietetic Spiced Apple Rings

Place spices in piece of dampened cheesecloth; tie to form bag. Place spice bag and apple juice in large saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, for 15 minutes.

Combine 2 quarts water, lemon juice and salt in large bowl.

Core apples; cut crosswise into 1/2-inch slices.

Place slices in lemon juice mixture as soon as cut to prevent discoloration.

Cut slices of large apples in half, if desired.

Drain about 1/4 of the apple slices; drop into boiling spiced juice.

Cook just until wilted. Spoon slices immediately into hot sterilized pint jars, leaving 1-inch headspace.

Add 1/4 teaspoon almond extract to each jar. Cover with hot juice, leaving 1/2-inch headspace.

Clean jar rims. Place lids on jars; tighten rings firmly, but do not force. Process in boiling water bath for 15 minutes.

Yields 5 to 6 pints.