If you are looking for a cozy, comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug, the Baked Apples with Cranberries, Nuts, and Cinnamon Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish brings together the natural sweetness of baked apples with the tart pop of cranberries, the crunch of nuts, and the aromatic warmth of cinnamon, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s simple to prepare yet incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for everything from a casual family treat to a festive holiday dessert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Baked Apples with Cranberries, Nuts, and Cinnamon Recipe shines because of its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, whether it’s adding sweetness, texture, or a hint of spice, making the final dish truly unforgettable.
- 6 medium baking apples: Choose firm varieties like Jonagold or Braeburn for the best texture after baking.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds rich, caramel-like sweetness that blends beautifully with the spices.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Provides warm, fragrant spice that’s classic in baked fruit recipes.
- 1/8 tsp grated nutmeg: A subtle addition that deepens the flavor profile without overpowering.
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries: These introduce a tart contrast, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter: Melts into the filling to create luscious richness and a silky texture.
- 1/4 cup walnuts (optional): Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty undertones; finely chopped for even distribution.
- 1 cup hot water (or apple cider/apple juice): Keeps the apples moist during baking and infuses subtle extra flavor.
- Unsweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream: For the blissful finishing touch, melting into the warm apples.
- Caramel Sauce (optional): Drizzle for an extra layer of decadence and sweetness; homemade is best if you have the time.
How to Make Baked Apples with Cranberries, Nuts, and Cinnamon Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 375ËšF. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg using a fork until combined. Stir in the dried cranberries, letting their tartness merge with the warm sweetness of the sugar and spices. This flavorful mixture will be the heart of your stuffed apples.
Step 2: Core the Apples
Next, wash your apples and carefully core them using a melon baller or a small paring knife. The key is to hollow out enough space to hold the filling but keep the base intact so the filling stays nestled inside during baking. Place each apple snugly in a casserole dish — this ensures even baking and keeps any juices contained.
Step 3: Stuff and Top the Apples
Divide the sugar-cranberry mixture evenly among the apples, pushing it gently into the cavities. Place half a tablespoon of butter atop each filled apple to help the flavors meld as they melt. If you want that extra crunch and nuttiness, sprinkle chopped walnuts on top. For a final touch, dust leftover cinnamon sugar over everything for an inviting aroma and a little sparkle.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour hot water, apple cider, or juice into the bottom of the casserole dish to keep the apples moist as they bake. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes to an hour, or until the apples are tender but still hold their shape. The exact time depends on the apple variety and size — my Jonagold apples took 45 minutes, but larger ones may need the full hour.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, spoon the deliciously spiced juices over the apples, then top them with a generous dollop of unsweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you have homemade or store-bought caramel sauce on hand, drizzle it over the top to complete this indulgent dessert.
How to Serve Baked Apples with Cranberries, Nuts, and Cinnamon Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the appeal and flavors by garnishing your baked apples with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Adding a few extra dried cranberries or chopped nuts on top provides texture and visual interest, making your dessert irresistible to look at as well as savor.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs wonderfully with simple sides like lightly spiced chai tea or a warm mug of apple cider to complement the spices in the baked apples. For a brunch or cozy afternoon treat, consider serving with a slice of cinnamon bread or a small wedge of sharp cheddar cheese that elegantly contrasts the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative by serving your baked apples in individual ramekins for a fancy presentation or hollow out larger apples for a rustic, natural bowl effect. You can even turn this into a spectacular centerpiece for your dessert table by arranging the apples on a platter surrounded by extra nuts and fresh cranberries.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though that’s rare!), store baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep beautifully for up to 3 days without losing their flavor or texture, making them perfect for quick reheats or enjoying cold.
Freezing
While baked apples are best fresh, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Wrap each apple tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in the oven or microwave.
Reheating
To reheat, place the apples in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying out, and warm them in a 350ËšF oven for about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual servings for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Add fresh whipped cream or ice cream just before serving to revive the magic.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts besides walnuts?
Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts make excellent alternatives and offer different textures and flavors to your baked apples. Just be sure to chop them finely for easier eating.
Do I have to core the apples all the way through?
No, it’s important to leave the bottom intact to hold the filling during baking. This prevents the filling from leaking out and ensures each bite is perfectly filled with sweet, spicy goodness.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, and serve with coconut whipped cream or a vegan ice cream variety. The baked apples will still be absolutely delicious.
What if I don’t have dried cranberries?
You can substitute dried cranberries with raisins, chopped dates, or dried cherries. Each will add a different character but keep that lovely chewy texture and subtle tartness.
Is it possible to bake this recipe without adding water?
While you can bake without water, adding it or apple cider helps steam the apples gently and keeps them juicy. Without it, the apples might dry out or cook unevenly, so I highly recommend including it.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Baked Apples with Cranberries, Nuts, and Cinnamon Recipe that makes it a forever favorite in my kitchen. It’s cozy, comforting, and deceptively simple to make, yet it delivers big on flavor and presentation. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday gathering or a quiet night in, I promise this dessert will become one you reach for time and again. Give it a try—you’ll be sharing this recipe with friends before you know it!
Print
Baked Apples with Cranberries, Nuts, and Cinnamon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 baked apples
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightfully warm and comforting baked apples filled with a spiced mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, dried cranberries, and walnuts, baked to tender perfection and served with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or vanilla ice cream for a classic autumn dessert.
Ingredients
Apples and Filling
- 6 medium baking apples
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp grated nutmeg
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries (craisins or raisins)
- 1/4 cup walnuts, finely chopped (optional)
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
Additional
- 1 cup hot water (or substitute apple cider or apple juice)
- Unsweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving
- Caramel Sauce (optional, homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat the oven to 375ËšF (190ËšC). In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/8 tsp grated nutmeg; mix well with a fork. Stir in 1/3 cup dried cranberries and set the mixture aside.
- Core Apples: Wash the apples thoroughly. Using a melon baller or small paring knife, core each apple from the top, making sure to leave the base intact to hold the filling inside without it leaking out. Place the apples upright in a casserole dish, making sure they do not touch each other.
- Stuff Apples: Evenly divide the cranberry and spice filling among the cored apples, spooning it into the cavities. Top each apple with 1/2 tablespoon of unsalted butter and sprinkle chopped walnuts on top if desired. Then, sprinkle any remaining cinnamon sugar mixture over the apples.
- Bake: Pour 1 cup of hot water (or apple cider/juice) into the casserole dish around the apples. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the apples are tender but not mushy. Baking time will vary depending on the apple variety and size used.
- Serve: Remove the apples from the oven and spoon the cooking juices over them. Serve warm topped with a dollop of unsweetened whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and optionally drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent finish.
Notes
- Choose firm baking apples like Jonagold, Braeburn, or Granny Smith for best results.
- Adjust baking time according to the size and sweetness of your apples.
- Use apple cider or apple juice instead of water for a richer, deeper flavor.
- Walnuts are optional but add a nice crunch to the filling.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with coconut oil and serve with non-dairy whipped cream or ice cream.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and gently reheated before serving.
