Method:

• Heat oven to 350°F (325°F for dark or nonstick pan). Grease 6 jumbo muffin cups with shortening.
• In large bowl, mix bread cubes, apple and figs. In small saucepan, cook 1 cup brown sugar, the milk and 1/4 cup butter over medium heat until butter is melted. Remove from heat; stir in cinnamon and vanilla. Pour over bread mixture in bowl. Add eggs; toss to coat. Spoon mixture into muffin cups, filling to tops of cups.
• Bake 30 to 34 minutes or until center is set and apples are tender. Cool while making sauce.
• In 1-quart saucepan, stir granulated sugar, 1/3 cup brown sugar, the whipping cream and 1/3 cup butter. Heat to boiling over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat; stir in maple flavor.
• Remove warm cupcakes from pan; place on serving plates. Spoon warm sauce over cupcakes. Garnish with maple candies.