Ingredients
For the Apples:
- 4 large firm apples (Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Pink Lady)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional for crunch)
- ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional for added sweetness)
- ½ cup apple cider or water (for moisture)
Optional Toppings:
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Greek yogurt
- Caramel sauce
- Maple syrup
- Granola for crunch
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish that fits all your apples snugly.
Step 2: Core the Apples
- Use an apple corer or a small knife to remove the cores, leaving about ½ inch of the bottom intact.
- If needed, use a spoon to scoop out seeds and flesh to create space for the filling.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, vanilla extract, chopped nuts, and raisins.
- Stir to combine until you get a crumbly, fragrant mixture.
Step 4: Stuff the Apples
- Spoon the brown sugar mixture into each apple cavity, packing it slightly.
- Top each apple with a small cube of butter for a rich, caramelized finish.
Step 5: Bake the Apples
- Pour apple cider or water into the bottom of the baking dish to keep the apples moist.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender but not mushy.
- Baste the apples with the juices in the pan to enhance the caramelization.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the apples cool slightly before serving.
- Drizzle with extra sauce from the pan.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Notes
Tips for the Best Baked Apples
- Choose Firm Apples – Soft apples can turn mushy; go for Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji.
- Don’t Overbake – You want tender apples, not applesauce!
- Experiment with Fillings – Swap nuts for oats, add a touch of maple syrup, or use dark chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
- Add Spices to Your Liking – A pinch of cloves or allspice can add extra warmth.
- Use Apple Cider for Extra Flavor – It enhances the sweetness and creates a delicious sauce.