This is a homemade version of a delicious treat called Aplets and Cotlets. We bought candy boxes and paper candy wrappers and gave these as Christmas presents one year. A big part of giving food gifts is professional, but fun, presentation.
2 C applesauce, drained in a fine-mesh strainer (or substitute apricot puree)
2 C sugar
1/4 tsp salt
2 T unflavored gelatin
6 T cold water
1 C coarsely chopped nuts
1 1/2 T lemon juice
Powdered sugar
In a heavy saucepan, bring applesauce, sugar, and salt to a boil, reduce heat and simmer, stirring frequently, until very thick, 45 min to 1 hour. In the meantime, soak gelatin in cold water. When applesauce mixture is thick, add gelatin and stir. Continue cooking until gelatin is thorougly dissolved. Remove from heat and add nuts and lemon juice. Pour into shallow pan, about 10 by 12 inches, that has been rinsed with cold water. Cool to room temp. and place in refrigerator overnight. Cut into squares or rectangles, roll in powdered sugar. Store in cool, dry place with wax paper between layers and between rows.