Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of baked apples, a classic dessert that evokes the essence of autumn. This recipe combines sweet, tender apples with a blend of spices and a touch of sweetness, creating a dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed on its own, baked apples are sure to please your palate and warm your heart.
Ingredients
– 4 medium-sized apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup apple juice or cider
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 baked apple) contains approximately:
– Calories: 180
– Protein: 1g
– Fat: 5g
– Carbohydrates: 36g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
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 brown sugar, walnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Stuff each apple with the sugar mixture.
5. Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish.
6. Dot the top of each apple with a small piece of butter.
7. Pour apple juice or cider into the baking dish around the apples.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until apples are tender.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute walnuts with almonds or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free option. Use honey instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetener. For a vegan version, replace butter with coconut oil.
Serving and Pairings
Baked apples pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They also complement a cup of hot tea or coffee, making them an excellent choice for dessert or an afternoon snack.
Storage and Reheating
Store baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 30-60 seconds. Baked apples can also be frozen; just ensure they are well wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overcooking can make apples mushy.
– Using overly ripe apples may lead to a loss of structure.
– Skipping the covering step can cause uneven cooking.
– Not enough liquid can lead to drying out.
– Forgetting to core the apples completely will affect the stuffing process.
Helpful Tips
– Choose firm apples for the best texture.
– Experiment with different spices like ginger or vanilla.
– Let the apples cool for a few minutes before serving.
– Serve with a scoop of ice cream for a delicious contrast.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, you can use any variety of apples, but firm types like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for baking as they hold their shape.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can reduce the amount of sugar or substitute it with honey or maple syrup. Additionally, using less butter or a healthy fat alternative can lower the calories.
Can I prepare these apples in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the apples a few hours ahead of baking. Just cover them to prevent browning and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What should I do with leftovers?
Leftover baked apples can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy them cold or reheated!
Can I bake them in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Place the prepared apples in a slow cooker with the juice and cook on low for 4-6 hours until tender.
Conclusion
Baked apples are an easy yet elegant dessert that brings warmth and joy to any table. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a dish that not only tastes delicious but also fills your home with delightful aromas. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this baked apples recipe is a must-try!
Baked Apples Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup raisins optional
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup apple juice or cider
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and core the apples, leaving the bottom intact.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, walnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Stuff each apple with the sugar mixture.
- Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish.
- Dot the top of each apple with a small piece of butter.
- Pour apple juice or cider into the baking dish around the apples.
- 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 apples are tender.
