There's something timeless about the aroma of baked apples wafting through the house. This classic recipe takes juicy, flavorful apples and turns them into a warm, spiced treat that's perfect for chilly days or a cozy dessert any time of year.
Apples: Choosing the right apples is key. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are excellent because they hold their shape well and offer a balance of tartness and sweetness.
Brown sugar: Provides a deep, molasses-like sweetness that complements the spices.
Walnuts: Add a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft baked apples.
Cinnamon and nutmeg: These warm spices enhance the natural flavor of the apples, adding depth and warmth.
Butter: A few small pieces of unsalted butter help to create a rich, glossy sauce as the apples bake.
Apple cider or water: Keeps the apples moist as they bake and creates a lovely sauce in the bottom of the baking dish.
Baked apples are delightful on their own, but for a more indulgent dessert, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold, creamy ice cream melts over the warm apple, creating a delicious contrast. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream also makes for a lovely addition.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it's nice and hot when you're ready to bake, so your apples cook evenly.
Next, core the apples. If you've got an apple corer, it makes this step a breeze. If not, a paring knife works fine. Just be careful to leave a bit at the bottom so the filling doesn't escape.
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This will be your delicious filling.
Stuff each apple core with the sugary, nutty mixture. Pack it in well, but don't overfill. You want it to stay put as the apples bake.
Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish. Scatter the small pieces of butter on top of the apples. As it melts, it will mix with the filling and juices, creating a rich sauce.
Pour the apple cider or water into the bottom of the dish. This liquid will steam the apples, helping them cook through and keeping them moist.
Now, bake the apples in your preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. You'll know they're done when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving. They’re wonderful warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra treat.
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