Baked Apples

When it comes to cozy, health-conscious desserts that still deliver on flavor, Baked Apples stand out as a timeless favorite. This wholesome treat combines the natural sweetness of apples with a warm, spiced filling, creating a dessert that feels indulgent yet guilt-free. Whether you’re entertaining guests, preparing a festive feast, or just looking for a quick and easy dessert for a weeknight, Baked Apples are a versatile choice that never disappoints.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Using just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a dish that feels gourmet. Customize the filling with nuts, dried fruits, or your favorite spices to make it your own. Served on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, Baked Apples are a delightful way to enjoy the season’s best produce.

Perfect for all occasions, this dessert celebrates the natural flavors of apples while adding a touch of comforting warmth. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this step-by-step guide will help you create a dessert that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make.

Preparation Time

Preparation: 15 minutes
Cooking: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

For the Baked Apples:

• Apples (4 medium-sized, such as Fuji or Granny Smith)
  Calories: ~320 calories (80 calories per apple)
• Brown Sugar (4 tablespoons)
  Calories: ~180 calories
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
  Calories: ~6 calories
• Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon)
  Calories: ~2 calories
• Rolled Oats (4 tablespoons)
  Calories: ~60 calories
• Chopped Walnuts (4 tablespoons)
  Calories: ~200 calories
• Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons)
  Calories: ~200 calories
• Raisins (4 tablespoons)
  Calories: ~120 calories

Optional Toppings:

• Vanilla Ice Cream (1 scoop per serving)
  Calories: ~137 calories
• Whipped Cream (1 tablespoon per serving)
  Calories: ~15 calories

Instructions

1: Prepare the Apples

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
2. Core the Apples: Using an apple corer or a small paring knife, carefully remove the cores of the apples, leaving about 1/2 inch at the bottom to create a well for the filling.
3. Score the Skin: Lightly score the skin around the middle of each apple to prevent splitting during baking.

2: Make the Filling

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, rolled oats, and chopped walnuts.
2. Add Raisins: Stir in the raisins for a touch of sweetness and texture.
3. Incorporate Butter: Add softened butter and mix until the filling resembles coarse crumbs.

3: Stuff the Apples

1. Fill the Cores: Spoon the filling mixture into the prepared apples, packing it tightly.
2. Place in Baking Dish: Arrange the stuffed apples upright in a baking dish.
3. Add Water: Pour about 1/2 cup of water into the dish to prevent the apples from sticking and to create a steamy environment.

4: Bake the Apples

1. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the filling is golden.
2. Baste Occasionally: Spoon some of the juices from the bottom of the dish over the apples every 10 minutes for added flavor.

5: Serve

1. Cool Slightly: Allow the apples to cool for about 5 minutes.
2. Add Toppings: Serve warm, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Calorie Breakdown

• Apples: ~320 calories
• Brown Sugar: ~180 calories
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg: ~8 calories
• Rolled Oats: ~60 calories
• Chopped Walnuts: ~200 calories
• Butter: ~200 calories
• Raisins: ~120 calories Total Calories: ~1,088 calories (serves 4, ~272 calories per serving without optional toppings)
  Optional Toppings: Add ~137 calories per serving for vanilla ice cream or ~15 calories for whipped cream.

Why This Recipe Works

Natural Sweetness: Baking enhances the natural sugars in apples, making this dessert naturally sweet and flavorful.
Customizable Filling: The mix of oats, nuts, and spices offers a satisfying crunch and warm, aromatic flavor.
Minimal Effort: With just a few steps, you’ll have a dessert that feels gourmet without requiring advanced baking skills.
Healthy Comfort Food: A perfect balance of indulgence and health-consciousness, this recipe uses whole ingredients to satisfy your sweet tooth.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of apples?
Yes, you can use any variety of apple, but firmer ones like Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp work best as they hold their shape during baking.

2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and ensure any additional toppings are dairy-free.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Store baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can core and stuff the apples a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate them until ready to bake.

5. What other toppings can I use?
Try Greek yogurt, caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of granola for extra flavor and texture.

Tips for Success

Even Cooking: Choose apples of similar size to ensure they bake evenly.

Prevent Soggy Filling: Avoid overfilling the apples as the butter will melt and could make the filling too moist.

Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of allspice or ginger for a unique twist.