Baked Apples Recipe

ByBob Jones

I love making recipes that provide warmth and comfort, and baked apples are a perfect example. With just a few ingredients—4 large apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon—this dessert comes together effortlessly and is, in my opinion, a divine combination of sweet and spicy.

If you’re looking to give your baked apples a nutritional upgrade, you could always toss in some chopped nuts (walnuts and pecans are two happy partners), or sub in some dried raisins or cranberries for the apple filling. Both add fiber and healthy fats.

After I bake the apples, I serve them topped with a daring drizzle of maple syrup, alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients photo for Baked Apples Recipe

Ingredients

Ingredients photo for Baked Apples Recipe

The following are apples: They are high in fiber, full of natural sweetness, and low in calories.

Brown Sugar: Delivers sweetness accompanied by a touch of molasses flavor.

Cinnamon, when ground, gives a warm, spicy flavor and is rich in antioxidants.

Nuts That Have Been Chopped: Provide protein, healthy fats, and a satisfying crunch.

Raisins and dried cranberries contribute sweetness, a chewy texture, and a dietary fiber to our food products.

Richness and creaminess and overall enhancement of the filling come from the butter.

Ingredient Quantities

  • 4 large apples

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

  • 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries

  • 1 tablespoon butter

  • 1/2 cup water

  • Optional: vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving

Instructions

1. Your oven should be heated to 350°F (175°C).

2. Clean the apples thoroughly and use a device to remove the core and seeds, producing an empty center—one that is large enough to stuff.

3. In a small bowl, combine the following: brown sugar, ground cinnamon, chopped nuts, and either raisins or dried cranberries.

4. Stand the apples upright in a baking dish.

5. Pack the sugar and nut mixture firmly into the center of each apple, filling it to the top.

6. Place a piece of butter on top of the filling in every apple after cutting the butter into small bits.

7. To prevent the apples from drying out, pour the water into the bottom of the baking dish.

8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven, which has been preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, for 20 minutes.

9. Take off the foil and bake for an extra 15 to 20 minutes, or until the apples are soft.

10. Optionally, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Apple corer
3. Small bowl
4. Baking dish
5. Measuring cups
6. Measuring spoons
7. Knife
8. Cutting board
9. Aluminum foil

FAQ

  • What type of apples should I use?For the best results when baking, select firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. They hold their shape well when baked.

  • Can I use another sweetener instead of brown sugar?Indeed, if you would rather use a different type of sweetener, feel free to substitute brown sugar with any of the following: honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar.

  • Are there nut-free options for this recipe?To create a version of the recipe that doesn’t use nuts, just take them out or substitute them with seeds—like sunflower or pumpkin seeds—that’ll give the dish the same wonderful texture and taste.

  • How can I make this recipe vegan?To replace the butter in the recipe and to make it vegan, use a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute.

  • Is there a substitute for raisins or dried cranberries?If you don’t have cranberries or raisins, you can replace them with other dried fruits like chopped dried apricots or dates.

  • How long do the baked apples need to cook?Usually, the baking time for the apples is around 30-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C), and the desired doneness is tender but not mushy.

  • What is the best way to serve baked apples?On their own, baked apples are delicious. They are even better served warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutes for Apples: Try using pears for a different flavor and texture.
Coconut sugar or honey can be used as a natural sweetener when substituting for brown sugar.
Chopped nuts: Use almonds or sunflower seeds instead for that nutty crunch.
Raisins/dried cranberries: Substitute with chopped dried apricots or figs for a different flavor.
Butter: As a dairy-free substitute, use coconut oil or margarine.