Classic Baked Apples Recipe

Introduction

Classic baked apples are a cozy and comforting dessert perfect for chilly evenings. Tender, sweet, and warmly spiced, they bring out the natural flavors of the fruit with a delightful nutty crunch. Ready in under an hour, this simple recipe is a timeless treat.

Ingredients

• 6 apples
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/3 cup chopped pecans
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups water

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Step 2: Using a paring knife, carefully remove the cores of each apple from the stem down, keeping the bottom intact to create a hollow space. Place the apples in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped pecans. Spoon this mixture into the hollow centers of the apples, filling them to the top.
4. Step 4: Place half a tablespoon of butter on top of each filled apple. Pour the water into the bottom of the baking dish so the apples are partially sitting in the liquid to help them steam.
5. Step 5: Bake the apples for about 45 minutes, or until they are soft when pierced with a fork. Serve warm, optionally topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Tips & Variations

• Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture after baking.
• Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if desired.
• Add a splash of maple syrup or a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra flavor complexity.
• For a boozy touch, drizzle a little rum or brandy over the apples before baking.

Storage

Store leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warm. Avoid overcooking during reheating to maintain their texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes, firmer apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are ideal as they hold their shape better during baking. Softer apples may become too mushy.

Do I need to peel the apples?

No, peeling is not necessary. Baking softens the skins and adds to the dish’s rustic texture and flavor.

Classic Baked Apples Recipe

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4.8 from 69 reviews

Classic Baked Apples are a warm, comforting dessert perfect for any season. Crisp apples are cored and filled with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and crunchy pecans, then topped with butter and baked until tender and fragrant. This simple yet delicious recipe makes a great treat served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Apples

• 6 apples

Filling

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/3 cup chopped pecans

Topping and Baking

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 cups water

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the apples evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare Apples: Using a paring knife, carefully remove the cores from each apple starting from the stem, making sure to leave the bottom intact so the filling doesn’t leak out. Place the hollowed apples upright in a 9×13 baking dish.
3. Make Filling: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped pecans. Mix well to create a flavorful filling.
4. Fill Apples: Spoon the brown sugar and pecan mixture into the hollow center of each apple, filling them to the top.
5. Add Butter and Water: Place half a tablespoon of butter on top of the filling in each apple. Pour the 2 cups of water into the bottom of the baking dish to create steam while the apples bake.
6. Bake: Bake the apples in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until they are soft and tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Serve: Serve the baked apples warm, optionally topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Notes

• Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture after baking.
• For a nut-free version, omit pecans or substitute with raisins or dried cranberries.
• To intensify flavor, sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg or allspice into the filling mixture.
• Make sure the water in the baking dish does not evaporate completely during baking; add more if necessary.

Keywords: baked apples, cinnamon apples, autumn dessert, easy baked fruit, warm dessert, pecan baked apples