Name: Baked Apples Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large apples; ⅓ cup brown sugar (73g); ⅓ cup pecans or walnuts, chopped and toasted (38g); ½ teaspoon cinnamon; 4 tablespoons butter (57g); 1 cup water, very hot (240mL)

Imagine the aroma of cinnamon and brown sugar wafting through your kitchen as these delightful Baked Apples cook to perfection. This classic dessert is a breeze to make and will have your taste buds dancing with joy. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the bounty of fall or add a touch of warmth to any season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simplicity at its Best: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dessert in no time.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Healthier Alternative: Satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt of a heavy, calorie-laden dessert.
Irresistible Aroma: Your home will smell like a cozy autumn day as these apples bake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Apples: The star of the show! Choose large, firm apples that can withstand baking.
Brown Sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that perfectly complements the apples.
Pecans or Walnuts: For a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Toast them for extra oomph!
Cinnamon: The quintessential spice that brings warmth and comfort to every bite.
Butter: Creates a luscious, velvety sauce as it melts into the filling.
Water: Keeps the apples moist during baking and prevents them from drying out.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Fruit Fusion: Add raisins or dried cranberries to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
Oatmeal Twist: Mix in some rolled oats for a heartier, more substantial filling.
Caramel Drizzle: Top with a dollop of caramel sauce before serving for an indulgent treat.
Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.

How to Make Baked Apples

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine brown sugar, chopped nuts, and cinnamon. This mixture will become the heart of your baked apples, infusing them with sweetness and spice.

Step 2: Core the Apples

Using a teaspoon, carefully hollow out the center of each apple, creating a well for the filling. Be sure to leave enough of the bottom intact to hold the delicious stuffing.

Step 3: Stuff and Top

Fill each apple generously with the brown sugar mixture. Crown each one with a tablespoon of butter – this will melt into a heavenly sauce as it bakes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Arrange the apples in a baking dish and pour hot water around them. This creates a steamy environment that keeps the apples moist and tender. Bake for about 50 minutes until the apples are soft but still holding their shape.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Choose apples with a good balance of sweetness and tartness, like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
For an extra flavor boost, add a splash of vanilla extract to the filling.
Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom to create your own signature blend.
Don’t skip the water in the baking dish – it’s crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

How to Serve

Serve these baked apples warm, straight from the oven. They’re delicious on their own, but here are some serving suggestions to take them to the next level:

Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
Drizzle with warm custard or crème anglaise for an elegant touch.
Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast.
Sprinkle with additional toasted nuts for extra crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze baked apples for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Warm baked apples in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with pears instead of apples?
Absolutely! Pears work wonderfully in this recipe. Choose firm, ripe pears and adjust the baking time as needed, as pears may cook faster than apples.

What’s the best way to core the apples without cutting through the bottom?
Use a melon baller or a small paring knife to carefully remove the core, leaving about half an inch at the bottom. Work slowly and steadily to avoid piercing through.

Can I prepare these apples in advance and bake them later?
Yes! You can stuff the apples and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before putting them in the oven.

How do I know when the baked apples are done?
The apples should be tender when pierced with a fork, but still hold their shape. The skin may start to split slightly, and the filling will be bubbly.

These Baked Apples are a delightful treat that brings comfort and warmth to any occasion. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dessert or an impressive finish to a dinner party, this recipe delivers on all fronts. The combination of sweet, spiced filling and tender, juicy apples is simply irresistible. So, grab your apples and get baking – a delicious adventure awaits in your kitchen!