Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of baked apples, a classic dessert that brings sweet nostalgia to every bite. This simple yet delicious recipe features tender apples stuffed with a mixture of spices, nuts, and a drizzle of caramel. Perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings, baked apples are a delightful way to enjoy this beloved fruit. Follow along for an easy step-by-step guide that will have your kitchen filled with wonderful aromas in no time!
Ingredients
– 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce
– 1/4 cup water
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 of baked apples contains approximately:
– Calories: 230
– Carbohydrates: 35g
– Protein: 2g
– Fat: 10g
– 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 each apple, leaving the bottom intact.
3. In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, walnuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, and raisins.
4. Stuff each apple with the sugar mixture using a spoon.
5. Place the apples in a baking dish upright.
6. Dot the top of each apple with butter.
7. Pour caramel sauce over the apples.
8. Add water to the bottom of the baking dish.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until apples are tender.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a different sweetness. You can also use almonds instead of walnuts for a nut-free option. If you prefer a gluten-free version, ensure that your caramel sauce is gluten-free.
Serving and Pairings
Baked apples pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top. They can also be served alongside a dollop of Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Enjoy them as a comforting dessert or a sweet breakfast treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. Baked apples can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure to seal them well.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using overly ripe apples can lead to mushy results.
- Not coring the apples properly may leave them hard in the center.
- Skipping the foil can cause the tops to burn before the apples are cooked.
- Overstuffing the apples may cause them to burst during baking.
- Not checking for tenderness can result in undercooked apples.
Helpful Tips
- Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for added flavor complexity.
- Drizzle extra caramel sauce before serving for a richer taste.
- Experiment with spices like ginger or allspice for a unique twist.
- Serve warm for the best flavor experience.
FAQs
Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, you can use various apple types, but tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet ones like Honeycrisp work best for baking.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make baked apples vegan, replace butter with coconut oil and use a vegan caramel sauce.
Is it possible to prepare baked apples ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the apples and stuff them a few hours in advance, then bake them just before serving.
Can I add other fruits to the filling?
Certainly! Dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots can enhance the flavor and texture of the filling.
What should I do if I don’t have caramel sauce?
You can make a quick caramel sauce by melting sugar and butter together or simply use honey or maple syrup as an alternative.
Conclusion
Baked apples are a timeless dessert that combines simplicity and flavor in a delightful way. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also allows for creativity with ingredients. Whether enjoyed warm with ice cream or as a wholesome snack, baked apples are sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.
Baked Apples Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup raisins optional
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and core each apple, leaving the bottom intact.
- In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, walnuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, and raisins.
- Stuff each apple with the sugar mixture using a spoon.
- Place the apples in a baking dish upright.
- Dot the top of each apple with butter.
- Pour caramel sauce over the apples.
- Add water to the bottom of the baking dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until apples are tender.
