The Beauty of Baked Apples

There’s a reason why baked apples have been a beloved dessert for centuries. These heavenly treats are not only incredibly easy to make, but they’re also versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your personal tastes. Whether you prefer them filled with raisins and walnuts, or with a dollop of caramel sauce drizzled on top, baked apples are a blank canvas waiting for you to add your artistic touches.

Additionally, baked apples are a healthier alternative to many traditional desserts. They’re naturally sweet, so you won’t need to add tons of extra sugar. Plus, apples are packed with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins. It’s like having your cake (or in this case, apple) and eating it too!

The Best Apples for Baking

Not all apples are created equal when it comes to baking. Ideally, you want an apple that can hold its shape while baking, and that offers a great balance of sweet and tart flavors. Some of the best varieties for baking include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, and Golden Delicious. However, feel free to experiment and find your personal favorite.

Once you’ve chosen your apples, you’ll want to core them, leaving a well in the center for your filling. You can use an apple corer if you have one, but a simple paring knife and spoon work just as well.

The Perfect Filling for Baked Apples

While the apples are the star of the show, the filling is a close second. A classic filling usually includes brown sugar, cinnamon, nuts, and raisins. But don’t let tradition limit your creativity. You can mix in oats for a heartier texture, or add in some dried cranberries or cherries for an extra burst of flavor. You could even add a spoonful of your favorite jam or a sprinkle of chocolate chips. The possibilities are endless!

Once filled, you’ll want to bake your apples until they’re soft, but not mushy. And be sure to baste them every now and then with the juices in the baking dish to keep them moist and flavorful.

Ingredients

4 medium-sized apples
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 cup chopped nuts
1/4 cup raisins
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 cup boiling water

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Core the apples, making sure to leave a well in the center for the filling.
In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nuts, and raisins.
Fill each apple with the sugar mixture and top each with a dab of butter.
Place the apples in a baking dish and pour the boiling water into the bottom of the dish.
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender (but not mushy), basting occasionally with the juices from the dish.
Serve warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce, if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-40 minutes

Tips for Baked Apples

Be sure to choose a firm apple variety that will hold up well to baking. If your apples are particularly sweet, you may want to reduce the amount of brown sugar in the filling. Don’t forget to baste the apples during baking to keep them moist and enhance their flavor.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

Baked apples are a simple, yet sophisticated dessert that’s sure to impress your guests. With a beautiful presentation, a balance of sweet and tart flavors, and a delightful mix of textures, this recipe takes the humble apple to new heights. Plus, it’s customizable, allowing you to add your own personal twist. With baked apples, you can enjoy a guilt-free dessert that’s both comforting and gourmet.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 200 kcal
Protein: 2g
Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 10mg
Sodium: 10mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 33g

Baked Apples