Have you ever experienced the bliss of biting into a perfectly baked apple? The aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen instantly creates a sense of warmth and comfort. Baked apples with cinnamon is not just a dish; it’s an experience that brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and holiday celebrations. This delightful dessert combines tender, juicy apples with the sweet spice of cinnamon, making it an irresistible treat for all ages.
Imagine serving these luscious baked apples at your next gathering or enjoying them on a chilly evening by the fireplace. Each bite reveals a melty core filled with sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the comforting warmth of spices. Whether you top them with ice cream or savor them on their own, these baked apples promise to elevate any occasion into something truly special.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Apples with Cinnamon
Simple and Quick to Prepare: One of the best things about baked apples with cinnamon is how effortlessly they come together. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delightful dessert ready in under an hour. Perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!
Healthier Dessert Option: Unlike many desserts loaded with sugar and calories, this dish features fresh fruit as its base. Apples are rich in vitamins and fiber, making this sweet treat not only delicious but also a healthier choice for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Aromatic Comfort Food: The combination of baking apples and spices fills your home with an inviting aroma that brings comfort. It evokes memories of family traditions and holidays spent together, creating a warm atmosphere everyone will appreciate.
Customizable Toppings: Baked apples are incredibly versatile! You can serve them plain or add toppings like whipped cream, yogurt, or even nuts for added texture. This allows you to personalize each serving according to individual tastes.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Firm Apples: Use varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their perfect balance of tartness and sweetness; they hold up well during baking.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is essential for achieving that warm flavor profile; opt for Ceylon cinnamon if available for a more delicate taste.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds moisture and richness; feel free to adjust the amount based on your desired sweetness level.
Butter: A small amount of unsalted butter enhances flavor while helping to create that delightful syrupy filling inside each apple.
Walnuts or pecans (optional): Chopped nuts add crunch and extra flavor; toast them lightly beforehand for best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Apples with Cinnamon
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows for even baking when you place the apples inside.
Prepare the Apples: Core each apple carefully without cutting all the way through. Create a hollow space in the center where filling will go. You can use an apple corer or a small knife for this task.
Create the Filling: In a bowl, mix brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped walnuts if using. Stir until combined; this mixture will be used to fill the hollowed-out apples.
Fill Your Apples: Spoon the filling into each prepared apple until it’s heaping over the top. Place them upright in a baking dish after filling them generously.
Add Butter: Dot each filled apple with small pieces of butter on top; this will melt down during baking and enhance flavor while keeping everything moist.
Bake Until Tender: Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the apples are soft but still hold their shape. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender enough to pierce easily with a fork.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with caramel sauce or serve warm with vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
Selecting Your Apples Wisely: Choose firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji that maintain their shape during cooking; avoid mealy types that can turn mushy too quickly.
Experimenting with Spices: Feel free to mix in other spices such as nutmeg or allspice alongside cinnamon for added depth; these variations can elevate your flavor profile significantly.
Checking Doneness Carefully: Keep an eye on your baked apples towards the end of cooking time; overbaking may lead them to collapse instead of retaining their delightful form.
Topping Ideas Galore: Consider serving these beauties topped with whipped cream, yogurt drizzle, or even ice cream when you want something extra indulgent!
With these simple tips in mind, you’ll create scrumptious baked apples that are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy them!
Mistakes to avoid
Using the wrong type of apples
Choosing the right apple variety is crucial for making perfect baked apples with cinnamon. Some apples become mushy when baked, while others hold their shape better. Avoid using Red Delicious or McIntosh apples; opt for firmer varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. These apples provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness, enhancing the flavor of the dish. Remember that the apple’s texture will significantly impact your final result, so select wisely to ensure a delightful dessert experience.
Overstuffing the apples
When preparing baked apples with cinnamon, it may be tempting to pack in as much filling as possible. However, overstuffing can lead to uneven cooking and a messy presentation. Aim for a moderate amount of filling made from brown sugar, oats, nuts, and spices. This ensures that each bite has a balanced flavor without overwhelming the apple itself. A well-stuffed apple will bake evenly and maintain its structure while providing a deliciously sweet interior.
Skipping the pre-baking process
One common mistake is skipping the pre-baking process before adding ingredients. Pre-baking your apples for about 10 minutes helps soften them slightly and creates a lovely texture. This step allows flavors to meld beautifully during baking, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Take this extra time to ensure your baked apples are tender yet not mushy. It’s an essential tip that elevates your dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Ignoring oven temperature
Oven temperature plays a vital role in achieving perfectly baked apples with cinnamon. Cooking at too high of a temperature can cause the outside to burn before the inside fully cooks. Conversely, too low of a temperature may lead to long cooking times and potentially dry results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for optimal results; this moderate heat allows even cooking while ensuring caramelization develops nicely on the outside without sacrificing tenderness within.
Not allowing cooling time
After baking your delicious apples, patience is key! Many people dive right into enjoying them without letting them cool first. Allow your baked apples with cinnamon to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This cooling period not only enhances flavor but also improves texture as they settle slightly after baking. Plus, they will be easier to handle and serve if you let them rest before indulging in this warm dessert delight!
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Apples with Cinnamon is versatile and pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream. The warm, spiced apples complement the creamy texture of the ice cream, creating a delightful contrast. Serve the dish in individual bowls and drizzle some caramel sauce on top for an extra indulgent treat.
You can also enjoy these baked apples as a breakfast option by serving them over oatmeal or yogurt. The sweetness of the apples enhances your morning meal while adding a satisfying crunch. Top with nuts or granola for added texture and nutrition.
For a festive touch, consider serving Baked Apples with Cinnamon alongside roasted meats during holiday gatherings. The sweet and spicy flavors provide a perfect balance to savory dishes like pork or turkey, making it an ideal side dish that guests will love.
Lastly, serve these baked apples as a dessert at your next dinner party. Garnish them with whipped cream and sprinkle some chopped nuts or chocolate shavings on top for an elegant presentation that will impress your guests.
FAQs
What varieties of apples are best for Baked Apples with Cinnamon?
Choosing the right apple variety is crucial for the perfect baked dish. Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well because they hold their shape during baking and offer a nice balance of sweetness and tartness. Avoid softer apples as they may turn mushy when baked.
Can I prepare Baked Apples with Cinnamon in advance?
You can prepare Baked Apples with Cinnamon in advance to save time. Core and stuff the apples earlier in the day, then cover them and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to adjust baking time if they go into the oven cold.
How long do Baked Apples with Cinnamon last in the fridge?
Baked Apples with Cinnamon can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Can I make Baked Apples with Cinnamon gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make Baked Apples with Cinnamon gluten-free! Use gluten-free oats or nut flour as a topping instead of regular flour. This ensures that everyone can enjoy this delicious dessert without worrying about gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
Baked Apples with Cinnamon is not only an easy recipe but also a delightful treat that brings comfort to any occasion. With simple ingredients like fresh apples, cinnamon, and sugar, you can create an aromatic dessert that fills your kitchen with warmth. Remember to pair it creatively with ice cream or use it as a side dish for savory meals to enhance its versatility. Additionally, preparing it in advance can save you time during busy days while still delivering delicious results. Enjoy this classic recipe as part of your family gatherings or cozy evenings at home; it’s sure to please everyone around your table!
Baked Apples with Cinnamon
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Apples with Cinnamon is a warm and comforting dessert that effortlessly combines the sweet, juicy flavor of baked apples with the aromatic spice of cinnamon. This easy-to-make dish fills your kitchen with delightful aromas, making it perfect for cozy evenings by the fireplace or festive gatherings. Each tender apple is cored and filled with a rich mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and optional nuts, then baked until perfectly soft. Serve these baked delights warm on their own or topped with creamy vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that will impress everyone. Whether enjoyed as a decadent dessert or a unique breakfast option over oatmeal, Baked Apples with Cinnamon is sure to become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 firm apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Core each apple carefully without cutting through the bottom.
- In a bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon; mix well.
- Fill each apple generously with the sugar mixture and dot with butter.
- Place apples in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
