Core apples, and slice a thin circle of peel from top of each. Place apples in a 9" pie-plate.

Combine sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg; spoon mixture into cavities of apples. Top each with 1/2 tablespoon butter. Pour water into pieplate; cover with heavy-duty plastic wrap.

Microwave at High for 6 to 8 minutes or until apples are crisp-tender, giving dish a half-turn after 3 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Yield: 4 servings.