One of my favorite memories of fair season in New England is the smell of apple crisp when you walk by the concessions. The warm fall spices and the fresh apple just warms your soul. It was a rare day that we ever left the fair without apple crisp, but I never really thought about making it at home. Those memories and a desire for something quicker and easier inspired these baked apples.
Appreciating Baked Apples
What makes baked apples such a great treat? Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they’re also a healthier alternative to many sugar-laden desserts. Apples are packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this dessert as nutritious as it is delicious. Plus, the natural sweetness of the apples means we can keep added sugars to a minimum. Leaving the skins on the apples as we do here helps you retain the maximum amount of nutrients and fiber. The apples bake long enough that the skins soften in the oven, so you don’t even notice them.
Choosing the Right Apples
The key to perfect baked apples starts with selecting the right variety. While you can use any apple, some hold up better to baking than others. My top picks are:
- Honeycrisp: For a balance of sweet and tart with a firm texture
- Granny Smith: If you prefer a more tart flavor
- Braeburn: For a rich, spicy-sweet taste
Pro tip: Choose apples that are similar in size for even baking.
We talk a little bit more about picking the right apples for your needs in our apple turnover recipe. Eating Well has a great resource to help you understand your options as well.
Tips and Customizations for Serving Baked Apples
While these baked apples are delightful on their own, there are countless ways to elevate them:
- Drizzle with a touch of caramel sauce for extra indulgence
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic à la mode experience
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangy contrast
- Pair with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese for a surprising savory twist
One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Feel free to experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger, incorporate chopped nuts or dried fruit in the filling, or even add a splash of bourbon to the filling for an adult version.
To complete your cozy autumn evening, pair your baked apples with a steaming mug of spiced apple cider or a rich cup of coffee. The combination of warm, spiced apples and a comforting beverage is pure bliss.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is rare!), they make for a fantastic breakfast. Simply reheat gently in the microwave and enjoy with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a nutritious start to your day.
Not only is this dessert delicious and comforting, but it’s also a great way to use up any excess apples from your apple-picking adventures. Remember, the best part about cooking is making it your own. So don’t be afraid to experiment and put your personal touch on this recipe. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Drop a comment below with your experiences or any creative twists you’ve added to make this recipe uniquely yours.
Easy Baked Stuffed Apples
Ingredients
- 6 medium apples
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons butter cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
- Combine the oats, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt in a medium bowl.
- Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the butter into the mixture to create a crumbly topping.
- Wash and core the apples.
- Place the apples into a deep baking dish.
- Fill the centers of the apples with the crumb topping.
- Mound some of the topping up to cover the top of each apple.
- Bake the apples for 25 minutes, or until the crisp topping is golden and the apples are fork-tender.
- Allow them to cool for 10 minutes, then serve them warm.
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