Stuffed Baked Apples are a simple dessert I’ve loved making over the years, especially during cooler months. To prepare them, I start by coring firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, leaving a small base at the bottom. The filling is a mix of chopped walnuts, raisins, oats, cinnamon, and a touch of brown sugar for sweetness. After stuffing the apples, I place them in a baking dish, add a splash of apple juice or water to keep them moist, and bake until they’re tender and fragrant. Served warm, these Stuffed Baked Apples pair beautifully with a dollop of vanilla yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup, making them a cozy, wholesome treat for any day.
A Recipe Passed Through Generations
Every fall, when the apples were fresh and crisp, we would gather to make Stuffed Baked Apples together. Granny would let me pick out the biggest, reddest apples from the basket. She’d hollow them out just right, making space for the filling. Then, I’d help mix chopped walnuts, raisins, brown sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Stuffing the apples with that sweet mixture and watching them bake in the oven was like waiting for a miracle to happen.
A Sweet Aroma That Warms the Soul
The smell of Stuffed Baked Apples baking is like a warm hug for the soul. The cinnamon and brown sugar bubble gently, creating a caramel-like sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. When we finally took them out of the oven, the apples were soft and golden, with their sweet filling peeking out from the top. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce was all they needed to become the most perfect treat on a cold night.
Sharing the Love of Stuffed Baked Apples
Now, every time I make Stuffed Baked Apples, I think of my grandmother and the love she poured into every meal. I’ve passed this recipe to my kids, too, and it’s their favorite dessert during the holidays. It’s amazing how something so simple can create such cherished memories. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, these apples always bring a sense of warmth and togetherness to the table.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Stuffed Baked Apples
- Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm, baking-friendly varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji to ensure the apples hold their shape and don’t become overly mushy during baking.
- Uniform Cavity Size: When coring the apples, try to keep the cavity size uniform to ensure even cooking and a consistent presentation.
- Flavor Boosts: Add a pinch of salt to the oatmeal filling to enhance the sweetness and flavor balance. You can also include a splash of vanilla extract or orange zest for added depth.
- Baking Tips: To prevent over-browning, tent the apples with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then uncover for the final 10 minutes to allow caramelization.
- Topping Ideas: Garnish the apples with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra texture and visual appeal.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prep the apples and filling in advance, store them separately in the refrigerator, and assemble just before baking for a hassle-free dessert.
Stuffed Baked Apples
4
servings15
minutes30
minutes304
kcal45
minutesExperience the perfect blend of sweetness and warmth with our Stuffed Baked Apples! This delightful dessert combines tender apples filled with a luscious oatmeal mixture infused with brown sugar and cinnamon, creating an irresistible treat your family will adore. Whether you’re seeking a comforting end to a hearty meal or a wholesome sweet fix, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Easy to customize and crafted with simplicity in mind, it’s a must-try for dessert enthusiasts looking for a healthy and affordable option. Dive into this delectable creation and savor the comforting flavors that make this dish a perennial favorite!
Ingredients
- Main Components
4 medium-sized apples carefully cored to form a cavity
- Oatmeal Filling
1 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 cup unsalted butter diced
- Alternative Ingredients
firm pears Substitute for apples
gluten-free rolled oats Substitute for rolled oats
coconut sugar Substitute for brown sugar
nutmeg Substitute for ground cinnamon
coconut oil Substitute for unsalted butter
Directions
- Preparation – Begin by assembling all necessary ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment. Optionally, line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Apple Preparation – Carefully core each apple, removing the center to form a generous cavity for the filling. Arrange the prepared apples on a rimmed baking sheet to prevent any juices from spilling during baking. This ensures the apples hold their shape and stay upright in the oven.
- Mixing the Filling – In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Incorporate the diced unsalted butter into the mixture, using your fingertips or a fork to blend until the mixture achieves a crumbly consistency. For a healthier twist, you can add a handful of chopped nuts or dried fruits at this stage.
- Filling the Apples – Evenly distribute the oatmeal mixture into the hollowed centers of each apple, packing the filling firmly to ensure it stays in place during baking. This step not only adds flavor but also creates a delightful texture contrast with the soft-baked apples.
- Baking – Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the apples for approximately 30 minutes. The apples should become tender, and the filling should start to bubble, indicating it’s perfectly cooked. For added caramelization, you can bake a few extra minutes until the tops are golden brown.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 304kcal
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 22mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Potassium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 3g
- Vitamin A: 500IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 40mg
- Iron: 1mg
FAQ- Stuffed Baked Apples
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can core the apples and prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance. Store the apples in a bowl of cold water with a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning. Assemble and bake just before serving.
What are the best types of apples to use for this recipe?
Firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, or Pink Lady work best as they maintain their structure during baking.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! Replace butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine, and use maple syrup or coconut sugar as the sweetener.
How can I make the recipe gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats or substitute with quinoa flakes for a similar texture and flavor.
What are some variations of the filling?
You can customize the filling by adding nuts (like pecans or almonds), dried fruits (such as cranberries or raisins), or spices (like nutmeg or allspice) to suit your taste preferences.
