Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a baking dish with non-stick spray.

Cut the top off each apple and use an apple corer to remove the core, being careful not to cut all the way through the bottom.

Place an apple on a cutting board with chopsticks on either side. Make deep circular cuts around the center, then slice downwards to create thin 'petals', stopping when the knife hits the chopsticks.

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until a paste forms.

Place apples in the baking dish. Press the butter mixture into the center of each apple and between the slices.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.

Remove foil. Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, basting the apples with the melted syrup every 5 minutes, until tender.

Remove from oven and transfer to serving plates. Drizzle generously with caramel sauce.

Top with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream, and garnish with sliced almonds before serving hot.