Indulge in the comforting sweetness of baked apples, a timeless dessert that fills your home with warm, inviting aromas. This simple yet elegant recipe transforms fresh apples into a delicious treat, perfect for any occasion. Whether served warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on their own, these baked apples are a must-try for anyone craving a taste of fall. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of apples!
Ingredients
– 4 medium-sized apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup apple juice or water
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving contains approximately:
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 2g
– Fat: 7g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Wash and core the apples, leaving the bottom intact.
3. In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, walnuts, and raisins.
4. Stuff each apple with the sugar mixture.
5. Place the apples in a baking dish.
6. Dot the tops of the apples with butter.
7. Pour apple juice or water into the baking dish.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
9. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil.
10. Bake for an additional 10 minutes, until tender.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute walnuts with almonds or omit nuts altogether for a nut-free version. Use honey instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetener. For a vegan option, replace butter with coconut oil.
Serving and Pairings
These baked apples pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Serve alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a warm, cozy dessert experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the apples in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 30-60 seconds. Baked apples can also be frozen, but it’s best to enjoy them fresh.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using overripe apples can lead to mushy results.
- Not covering the baking dish may cause the apples to dry out.
- Overstuffing the apples can lead to spillage while baking.
- Underbaking may leave the apples too firm.
- Forgetting to preheat the oven can affect cooking time.
Helpful Tips
- Choose apples that are firm and slightly tart for the best flavor.
- Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth.
- For a twist, add a splash of bourbon or rum to the baking dish.
- Let the apples cool slightly before serving to enhance flavors.
FAQs
Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, while Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal, you can use any firm apples. Just be mindful of the sweetness level.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any flour or gluten-based ingredients.
Can these baked apples be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apples and stuff them a day in advance. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover baked apples can be enjoyed as a snack, added to oatmeal, or blended into smoothies for extra sweetness.
How do I know when the apples are done?
The apples should be fork-tender and slightly caramelized on the outside. They should not be falling apart.
Conclusion
Baked apples are a delightful and easy dessert that showcases the natural sweetness of this beloved fruit. Whether enjoyed on their own or with a side of ice cream, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Embrace the flavors of fall and indulge in this comforting treat!
Baked Apples Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized apples
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup raisins optional
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup apple juice or water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and core the apples, leaving the bottom intact.
- In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, walnuts, and raisins.
- Stuff each apple with the sugar mixture.
- Place the apples in a baking dish.
- Dot the tops of the apples with butter.
- Pour apple juice or water into the baking dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes, until tender.