In our cozy kitchen, the aroma of cinnamon and caramelized sweetness fills the air, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame. Baked apples are not just desserts; they are warm hugs served on a plate that evoke memories of family gatherings and chilly autumn evenings. pumpkin fluff dip.
Picture this: a crisp apple, transformed into a tender delight, bursting with juicy goodness and topped with a crunchy streusel. Perfect for any occasion, from Sunday brunch to holiday feasts, these baked apples promise to elevate your dessert game and leave your taste buds dancing in joy. For more inspiration, check out this apple cider braised chicken recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These baked apples are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute guests
- Their sweet and spiced flavor profile will have everyone coming back for seconds
- The vibrant colors make them an eye-catching addition to any dessert table
- Versatile enough to serve warm à la mode or cold with yogurt, these baked apples fit any mood
One time at a family gathering, my cousin took one bite and instantly declared them “life-changing.” I think the phrase was meant for dramatic effect, but hey—who am I to argue with such enthusiasm?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Firm Apples: Choose varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
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Brown Sugar: This adds depth and caramel flavor—don’t skimp on it!
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Cinnamon: Use ground cinnamon for warmth; it’s the aromatic superstar of this recipe. cinnamon roll casserole.
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Butter: A dab of butter enhances richness; feel free to use unsalted for more control over saltiness.
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Oats: Rolled oats give the topping that delicious crunch; old-fashioned work best here.
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Nuts (optional): Walnuts or pecans add texture and flavor; toast them lightly for an extra nutty aroma.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking while you prepare those lovely apples.
Prepare the Apples: Core each apple carefully without cutting all the way through. Create space for that delightful filling—you want to keep the juices inside!
Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine brown sugar, oats, cinnamon, and melted butter until crumbly. cinnamon sugar donuts This mixture should look like something you’d want to dive into headfirst!
Stuff Those Apples: Generously fill each apple with your oat mixture. Pack it tightly so every bite becomes a burst of flavor—this is where magic happens.
Bake Them Up: Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and pour a splash of water at the bottom. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes until they soften beautifully.
Add Some Crispiness: Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell divine—trust me!
With each step taken carefully, you’re not just following a recipe; you’re creating an experience filled with warmth and joy—just like those cherished family moments we all hold dear.
And there you have it! Baked apples that will make your heart sing and your tastebuds rejoice. These little gems are bound to become a staple in your home, celebrating life’s sweet moments one delicious bite at a time! delicious applesauce muffins.
You Must Know
- Baked apples are a delightful dessert that fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma
- They can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with ice cream, creating a comforting treat perfect for all occasions
- Easy to prepare and customizable, they are truly a crowd-pleaser
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Core the apples, fill them with your mixture of spices and sugar, then bake for 25-30 minutes until tender.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping traditional brown sugar for maple syrup for a unique flavor twist. You can also add nuts or dried fruits to the filling for extra texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to ensure they hold their shape during baking
- Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary based on apple size
- For added richness, serve with whipped cream or caramel sauce!
One Thanksgiving, I made baked apples as a last-minute dessert and they vanished within seconds. Everyone raved about them, making me feel like a kitchen superstar!
FAQ
What type of apples work best for baked apples?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are ideal due to their firmness and tartness.
Can I make baked apples ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare them and store in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
How do I know when my baked apples are done?
They should be tender but still hold their shape, typically after 25-30 minutes of baking.
Baked Apples
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked apples are a delightful dessert that will warm your heart and fill your home with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and caramel. Juicy, tender apples are stuffed with a sweet oat mixture, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Ideal for any occasion, these baked apples can be served warm with ice cream or cold with yogurt. Simple to prepare, this recipe is sure to impress family and guests alike while evoking cherished memories of cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- 4 firm apples (like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Core each apple carefully without cutting through the bottom.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, oats, cinnamon, and melted butter until crumbly.
- Stuff each apple generously with the mixture.
- Place the filled apples in a baking dish with a splash of water at the bottom.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 baked apple (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
