Caramel Walnut Baked Apples are a comforting, seasonal treat that combines the tang of baked apples with the sweetness of caramel and the crunch of walnuts. Perfect for autumn gatherings or a cozy night in, these baked apples are both simple to make and delightfully indulgent.
Apples form the base of the dish, and varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith provide a balance of sweetness and tartness. Walnuts add a rich, nutty crunch that complements the soft baked apples. Brown sugar brings a deep molasses flavor that enhances the caramel notes. Caramel sauce is drizzled on top for a luscious, sweet finish. Unsalted butter adds richness and helps the filling meld together during baking. Cinnamon and nutmeg provide warm, spicy notes that accentuate the autumnal flavors. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and elevates the overall taste. Lastly, apple cider adds moisture and a subtle apple flavor, helping to soften the apples as they bake.
These baked apples pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a breakfast twist, serve them warm with a side of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of granola.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gives you a head start on creating those perfectly baked apples. Next, grab your apples and core them. Make sure to leave the bottoms intact, as you'll want to create a cavity for the filling without it leaking out. If you've never done this before, a melon baller or a small paring knife can be quite handy.
In a mixing bowl, combine the walnuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir everything together until the walnuts are well-coated in the sugary spice blend. This mixture is what's going to make your apples sing with flavor.
Stuff each apple with a generous amount of the walnut mixture. Don't be shy — you want each bite to have a good amount of that delicious filling. Once stuffed, place a small dot of butter on top of each apple. This will melt and seep into the filling, making it even more indulgent.
Arrange the apples in a baking dish, ensuring they're snug but not overcrowded. Pour the apple cider around them. This step is crucial as the cider will keep the apples moist and infuse them with even more apple flavor as they bake.
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let the apples bake for 35-40 minutes. You'll know they're ready when they're tender but still hold their shape. Once done, drizzle the warm caramel sauce over each apple. Serve immediately for the best experience.
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