The aroma of warm cinnamon wafts through your kitchen as you pull out a tray of baked apples, their golden skin glistening like they just won a beauty pageant. Each bite promises a burst of sweetness that dances on your taste buds—it’s more than just dessert; it’s comfort food at its finest.
it’s a chilly autumn evening, and you’ve gathered around the table with family. The laughter mingles with the scent of these heavenly baked apples as they come out of the oven. Prepare yourself for an experience that not only fills your belly but warms your heart!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These baked apples are incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion
- Their sweet and spicy flavor profile will have everyone asking for seconds
- Visually stunning when served warm with ice cream or whipped cream, they’re versatile enough to be enjoyed any time of year
- Perfect for cozy nights in or festive gatherings!
I once made these baked apples for a family gathering, and my grandma’s eyes sparkled like she had just found a winning lottery ticket!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Cinnamon: A must-have spice that adds warmth and depth; fresh ground is always best!
- Brown Sugar: Use light or dark brown sugar for that rich caramel flavor; it makes everything sweeter.
- Butter: Adds richness; feel free to substitute with plant-based butter if desired.
- Nuts (optional): Chopped walnuts or pecans add crunch; toast them lightly for extra flavor.
- Dried Fruits (optional): Raisins or cranberries can introduce another layer of sweetness; choose what you love!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8×8 inch baking dish and set aside; we’re going to fill it with some apple magic!
Prepare the Apples: Wash your chosen apples thoroughly and remove the cores using an apple corer or knife while leaving the bottoms intact so they hold their shape.
Create the Filling: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, chopped nuts, and any dried fruits you’d like. This sweet mixture will transform your humble apples into an indulgent treat!
Stuff Those Apples: Generously spoon the filling into each apple until they’re overflowing with goodness—don’t be shy! Add a small pat of butter on top of each filled apple for extra richness.
Bake to Perfection: Place your stuffed apples in the prepared baking dish and pour about half an inch of water into the bottom to keep them moist while baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until tender but still holding their shape.
Serve Warm: Let them cool slightly before serving. For a real treat, serve them warm topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream—a match made in heaven!
These baked apples are not just delicious; they’re also a great way to use up those less-than-perfect fruits sitting in your fruit bowl. Plus, they fill your home with that nostalgic aroma that screams “fall,” no matter what season it is.
So get ready to impress everyone at your next dinner party (or just yourself on a quiet night), because these simple yet delectable baked apples are bound to steal the show!
You Must Know
- Baked apples are a delightful dessert that fills your kitchen with sweet aromas
- They’re easy to prepare and can be customized with various fillings
- The contrast of soft apples with crunchy toppings makes each bite heavenly, perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Core the apples and fill them with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts before baking them for about 30-35 minutes until tender.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional ingredients! Try adding cranberries for tartness or oatmeal for extra crunch. You can even drizzle honey for added sweetness if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
Store baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture after baking
- Don’t overstuff the apples; a little filling goes a long way
- Experiment with spices beyond cinnamon, like nutmeg or ginger, to elevate flavors!
I remember the first time I made baked apples; my family was so impressed they thought I’d become a gourmet chef overnight! Their smiles were worth every minute spent in the kitchen.
FAQ
What types of apples are best for baking?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent choices due to their firmness and flavor.
Can I make baked apples ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and bake when ready to serve.
Are there vegan options for baked apple fillings?
Yes! Use maple syrup instead of honey and substitute butter with coconut oil for a vegan option.
Delightful Baked Apples
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the warm, spiced flavors of baked apples, a comforting dessert perfect for cozy gatherings and filled with irresistible aromas.
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp butter (or plant-based alternative)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup raisins or cranberries (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Core the apples, leaving the bottoms intact to hold their shape.
- In a bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, nuts, and dried fruits.
- Generously fill each apple with the mixture and top with a small pat of butter.
- Place the apples in the baking dish and pour in half an inch of water to keep them moist while baking.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until tender but still holding their shape.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Notes
- Feel free to experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra flavor.
- You can also swap out nuts for oats for added crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 baked apple (approximately 180g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg