Wash apples and core without going through the bottom. Pare each apple around the top center removing 1/2-inch of skin.
Pour apple juice in the bottom of the 2 Quart Saucepan and place apples in the pan.
Mix 1 tablespoon of sugar with cinnamon in a small bowl and then sprinkle mixture evenly into the center of each apple.
Make a syrup with butter, raisins, water and remaining sugar. Spoon evenly over the apples.
Place a cinnamon stick over the top of each apple.
Cover and cook over low heat until apples are tender, about 50 minutes.
Garnish with sliced almonds.