Baked apples are a delightful and comforting dessert that brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit. This simple yet delicious recipe combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar with the crunch of optional nuts and the chewiness of raisins. Perfect for a cozy evening treat or a special occasion, these baked apples are sure to please everyone at the table.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, you might need to pick up a few items if they are not already in your kitchen. Brown sugar and cinnamon are essential for the sweet and spicy flavor. If you choose to include them, chopped nuts and raisins add texture and depth to the dish. Make sure to grab fresh, firm apples for the best results.
Ingredients For Baked Apple Recipe
Apples: The main ingredient, providing natural sweetness and a tender texture when baked.
Brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the filling.
Cinnamon: Brings a warm, spicy flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples.
Chopped nuts: Optional, but adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the filling.
Raisins: Optional, but adds a chewy texture and bursts of sweetness.
Butter: Melts over the apples, adding richness and helping to create a delicious sauce.
Water: Keeps the apples moist during baking and helps to create a flavorful sauce.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When coring the apples, use a melon baller to carefully scoop out the core while leaving the bottom intact. This ensures a more even cavity for stuffing and prevents the filling from leaking out during baking.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
apples - Substitute with pears: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness when baked, making them a great alternative.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and a unique flavor that complements baked fruits.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm, spicy flavor that can replace cinnamon in many recipes.
chopped nuts - Substitute with granola: Granola adds a similar crunch and can include a variety of nuts and grains.
raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries provide a tartness that contrasts well with the sweetness of the baked fruit.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can mimic the richness of butter and adds a subtle coconut flavor.
water - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice enhances the apple flavor and adds a bit more sweetness to the dish.
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How to Store or Freeze This Dish
Allow the baked apples to cool completely at room temperature before storing.
Transfer the cooled baked apples to an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, place a piece of parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking.
Store the container in the refrigerator. The baked apples will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place the baked apples in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
For freezing, wrap each baked apple individually in plastic wrap, ensuring they are tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Place the wrapped baked apples in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for easy tracking.
Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the baked apples in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheat using the same methods as for refrigerated baked apples.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baked apples in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place the baked apples in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 320°F (160°C). Place the baked apples in the basket and heat for 5-7 minutes, checking occasionally to avoid overcooking.
To reheat on the stovetop, place the baked apples in a saucepan with a splash of water or apple juice. Cover and heat over low-medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
For a unique twist, try reheating the baked apples on a grill. Wrap each apple in aluminum foil and place on a preheated grill over medium heat. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until warmed through.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Oven: Used to bake the apples at a consistent temperature of 375°F (190°C).
Apple corer: Essential for removing the core of the apples while keeping the bottom intact.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nuts, and raisins.
Spoon: Handy for stuffing the apples with the sugar mixture.
Baking dish: Holds the apples and water while they bake in the oven.
Knife: Useful for cutting the butter into small pieces to top the apples.
Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients like brown sugar, nuts, raisins, and water.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the cinnamon and butter accurately.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Prepare the filling: Mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, nuts, and raisins in advance and store in an airtight container.
Core the apples: Use an apple corer to quickly and efficiently remove the cores, leaving the bottom intact.
Preheat the oven: Start preheating the oven while you prepare the apples to save time.
Use a baking dish: Choose a baking dish that fits all the apples snugly to ensure even cooking.
Melt the butter: Melt the butter slightly before placing it on top of the apples for easier handling.
Baked Apple Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 apples
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup chopped nuts optional
- ¼ cup raisins optional
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ cup water
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Core the apples, leaving the bottom intact.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, nuts, and raisins.
- Stuff each apple with the mixture.
- Place apples in a baking dish and top each with a small piece of butter.
- Pour water into the dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until apples are tender.
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses
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