Indulge in the comforting goodness of baked apples, a classic dessert that brings the taste of autumn into your kitchen. These tender, sweet apples, filled with a spiced mixture of nuts, raisins, and brown sugar, are baked until golden and bubbling. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this baked apples recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
– 4 medium apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Optional: vanilla ice cream for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 baked apple) contains approximately:
– Calories: 200
– Total Fat: 6g
– Saturated Fat: 2g
– Carbohydrates: 38g
– Dietary Fiber: 4g
– Sugars: 25g
– Protein: 2g
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 brown sugar, raisins, walnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Stuff each apple with the mixture, pressing down gently.
5. Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish.
6. Pour water into the bottom of the dish.
7. Dot the tops of the apples with butter.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until apples are tender and caramelized.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Serving and Pairings
Serve baked apples warm, drizzled with caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Baked apples can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using overly ripe apples can result in mushy texture.
- Not coring the apples properly may lead to uneven cooking.
- Overstuffing the apples can cause them to burst while baking.
- Skipping the foil cover can dry out the apples.
- Not monitoring cooking time can result in burnt apples.
Helpful Tips
1. Choose firm apples to enhance texture.
2. Experiment with spices like ginger or allspice for unique flavors.
3. Serve with whipped cream for an extra treat.
4. Adjust sweetness based on your preference.
FAQs
Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any firm apple variety. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great options due to their balance of sweetness and tartness.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with coconut oil and omit any dairy toppings like ice cream.
What can I serve with baked apples?
Baked apples pair well with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They also complement a cup of tea or coffee.
Can I make baked apples ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apples and stuff them ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and bake when ready to serve.
How do I know when the apples are done?
The apples are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. A slight caramelization on the top is also a good indicator.
Conclusion
Baked apples are a delightful dessert that brings warmth and sweetness to any meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike. Enjoy this comforting treat with family and friends, and savor the delicious flavors of fall.
Baked Apples Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Optional: vanilla ice cream for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and core the apples, leaving the bottom intact.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, raisins, walnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Stuff each apple with the mixture, pressing down gently.
- Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish.
- Pour water into the bottom of the dish.
- Dot the tops of the apples with butter.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until apples are tender and caramelized.
