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
Scale
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.
