Description of this recipe:
Stuffed baked apples are a delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with a rich, spiced filling. This recipe features tender apples filled with a mixture of oats, nuts, and spices, all baked to perfection. The warm, gooey filling contrasts beautifully with the crisp apple skin, creating a comforting dish that is perfect for fall and winter gatherings.
Why you will love this recipe:
You will love this recipe because it is simple yet elegant, making it a perfect choice for both casual family dinners and festive celebrations. The combination of flavors—sweet apples, crunchy nuts, and warm spices—will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, it’s a healthier dessert option that still feels indulgent, especially when topped with creamy vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. It’s a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia, reminding you of cozy autumn days and family traditions.
Introduction
As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of baked apples wafting through your kitchen. This stuffed baked apples recipe is a celebration of fall flavors, showcasing the deliciousness of seasonal produce. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, from the soft, tender apple to the crunchy, spiced filling. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, these stuffed baked apples are sure to impress.
Let’s dive into the details of this delightful dessert, exploring the ingredients, preparation steps, and some handy tips to ensure your baked apples turn out perfectly every time.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized apples (Honeycrisp recommended)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped pecans or walnuts
- ½ cup old-fashioned oats
- 4 tablespoons chilled unsalted butter, cubed
- Vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce, for serving
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the apples evenly, allowing them to soften while the filling becomes golden and fragrant.
Step 2: Prepare the apples by coring each one, leaving the bottom intact to create a cavity for the filling. You can also choose to halve the apples and scoop out the core if you prefer a different presentation.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, chopped nuts, and old-fashioned oats. Stir the ingredients together until they are well mixed.
Step 4: Add the cubed chilled unsalted butter to the dry mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial as it creates a crumbly topping that will enhance the texture of your stuffed apples.
Step 5: Generously fill each apple with the prepared filling, pressing it down gently to pack it in. Place the filled apples in a baking dish and pour about an inch of water into the bottom of the dish. This will create steam during baking, helping the apples to cook through without drying out. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the stuffed baked apples warm, topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some additional chopped nuts on top or serve with a dollop of whipped cream. These apples pair wonderfully with a hot cup of spiced cider or a rich cup of coffee, making them a perfect end to any meal.
Tips:
- Choosing Apples: While Honeycrisp apples are recommended for their sweetness and texture, you can also use Granny Smith for a tart contrast or Fuji apples for extra sweetness.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just fill the apples and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
- Storage: Leftover baked apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Customization: Feel free to customize the filling by adding dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, or incorporating spices like nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile.
- Serving Size: This recipe serves four, but you can easily double or halve the ingredients depending on your needs.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
1 hour
Total Time:
1 hour 10 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 367 per serving
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
Stuffed baked apples are not just a dessert; they are a warm embrace on a chilly evening, a sweet reminder of home, and a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of fall. This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone will love. Whether enjoyed solo or shared with family and friends, these apples are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Questions and Answers
1. Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples are recommended for their sweetness and texture, you can use any variety you prefer. Granny Smith apples will provide a tart contrast, while Fuji apples are sweeter.
2. How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this recipe healthier, you can reduce the amount of sugar used in the filling or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
3. Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes! The filling can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just fill the apples and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
4. What can I serve with stuffed baked apples?
Stuffed baked apples are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, or whipped cream. A hot cup of spiced cider or coffee also complements this dessert beautifully.
5. How do I store leftover baked apples?
Leftover baked apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving for the best taste.