Name: Baked Apples
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: . Apples; 4 good-quality apples ((I like to use red apples, but baking apples, such as Granny Smith, work great too!)); . Filling; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts ((or pecans)); 1/4 cup light brown sugar ((packed)); 2 Tablespoons butter ((room temperature)); 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup water; vanilla ice cream ((for topping, optional))

Welcome to the delightful world of baked apples! This simple and cozy dessert is perfect for any occasion, and trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Why You’ll Love This

Baked apples are a warm, comforting treat that combines the sweetness of fruit with the crunch of nuts and the warmth of spices. Topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s a dessert that will impress everyone!

Tips for Perfection

Choose good-quality apples for the best flavor. Red apples are great, but Granny Smith adds a lovely tartness. Enjoy the process—it’s so satisfying!

Ingredients

Apples:
4 good-quality apples ((I like to use red apples, but baking apples, such as Granny Smith, work great too!))
Filling:
1/4 cup chopped walnuts ((or pecans))
1/4 cup light brown sugar ((packed))
2 Tablespoons butter ((room temperature))
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup water
vanilla ice cream ((for topping, optional))

Instructions

Prepare the Apples:
Step 1

- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Use a paring knife or apple corer to remove the stem and seeds from the apples, making a deep hole where the filling will go.
Step 2

- Make the Filling: Combine the brown sugar, butter and cinnamon in a small bowl and mix well to combine. Add the nuts. Spoon mixture evenly into each of the apples.
Step 3

- Prepare for Baking: Add 1/4 cup of water to a baking dish and place apples on top.
Step 4

- Bake: Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until apples are tender when pierced with a fork. Remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes.
Step 5

- Serve: Spoon the sauce drippings from the pan over the apples. Serve with ice cream, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 150, Fat: 7g, Carbs: 23g, Protein: 1g

Cooking techniques

Baking is the primary technique used here, allowing the apples to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect tenderness!

Variations or substitutions

Feel free to swap out the walnuts for pecans or even try adding raisins for extra sweetness. You can also experiment with different spices like nutmeg!

Storage tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving to enjoy them warm again!

Notes

For an extra touch, drizzle caramel sauce over the baked apples before serving. Enjoy!