Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of baked apples, a classic dessert that brings a touch of nostalgia to any table. This simple yet delightful recipe features tender apples filled with a sweet mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and nuts, all baked to perfection. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with ice cream, these baked apples are sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will fill your kitchen with inviting aromas!
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup apple cider or juice
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 baked apple) contains approximately:
– Calories: 200
– Total Fat: 6g
– Saturated Fat: 3g
– Carbohydrates: 38g
– Fiber: 4g
– Sugars: 24g
– Protein: 2g
This analysis is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and core the apples, creating a hollow center.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, chopped nuts, and raisins.
- Stuff the apple cavities with the sugar mixture.
- Place the apples in a baking dish.
- Add butter on top of each apple.
- Pour apple cider around the apples in the baking dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until tender.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. Additionally, feel free to replace nuts with seeds for a nut-free version. For a spicier flavor, consider adding nutmeg or ginger to the filling.
Serving and Pairings
These baked apples pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For an added crunch, serve with a sprinkle of granola on top.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Baked apples can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using overly ripe apples can result in mushy texture.
- Not coring apples properly may lead to uneven cooking.
- Skipping the foil during baking can dry out the apples.
- Overstuffing the apples might cause them to burst.
- Not checking for doneness can result in undercooked apples.
Helpful Tips
- Choose apples that are firm for the best results.
- Experiment with different spices such as allspice or cloves.
- Let the baked apples cool slightly before serving.
- Drizzle with honey for extra sweetness.
- Consider adding a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert.
FAQs
Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, you can use various apple types, but firmer apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape best when baked.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute butter with coconut oil and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
Can I add other fruits to the filling?
Absolutely! You can mix in chopped pears or cranberries for added flavor and texture.
How do I know when the apples are done?
The apples are done when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork, typically after about 30 minutes of baking.
Can I prepare these apples ahead of time?
You can prepare the apples ahead of time by stuffing them and storing them in the fridge until ready to bake. They may require additional cooking time if they are cold from the fridge.
Conclusion
Baked apples are a delightful dessert that combines simplicity and flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. With a few basic ingredients and easy steps, you can create a warm, comforting dish that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or as a delightful treat any time of year!
Baked Apples Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized apples
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
- 1/4 cup raisins optional
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup apple cider or juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and core the apples, creating a hollow center.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, chopped nuts, and raisins.
- Stuff the apple cavities with the sugar mixture.
- Place the apples in a baking dish.
- Add butter on top of each apple.
- Pour apple cider around the apples in the baking dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until tender.