Homemade Caramel Baked Apples

Homemade Caramel Baked Apples are one of the simplest yet most comforting desserts you can make. I love taking crisp apples, coring them, and filling them with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter. Drizzling caramel sauce over the top before baking makes the house smell warm and inviting. As they bake, the apples soften, and the caramel bubbles into a sweet, golden glaze. Served warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, Homemade Caramel Baked Apples feel like a hug in every bite perfect for cozy nights or when you just want a little treat.

A Childhood Tradition

As a child, I’d watch her carefully core the apples, stuffing them with brown sugar, butter, and a pinch of cinnamon. She’d drizzle sticky caramel over each apple before sliding them into the oven. The secret, she’d say, is in the slow bake. Let the apples soften and soak in all that goodness. Waiting was the hardest part, but the sight of those golden apples bubbling with caramel made it worth it.

Sharing the Warmth

Now, I carry on the tradition with my own family. Whenever the weather cools, I gather the ingredients and let my kids join in. They love spooning caramel sauce over the apples and sneaking tastes of the filling. There’s something magical about how Homemade Caramel Baked Apples bring everyone to the table, laughing and sharing stories as we wait for the timer to ding.

A Comforting Treat

When I finally pull the apples out of the oven, their sweet aroma fills the house. Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a sprinkle of chopped nuts, these apples never fail to bring smiles. Homemade Caramel Baked Apples are more than a dessert—they’re a way to slow down, savor the season, and create memories that last a lifetime.

Chef’s Notes- Homemade Caramel Baked Apples

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm, baking-friendly varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. These hold their shape well during baking and have a balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Core with Precision: Use an apple corer or a small melon baller for even and clean hollowing, ensuring the apple remains intact to hold the filling.
• Prevent Browning: Brush the apple halves with lemon juice to keep them from browning while preparing the filling.
• Achieve the Perfect Filling Texture: If your filling seems too dry, add a touch of melted butter or a splash of milk. If it’s too wet, mix in a small amount of breadcrumbs or oats.
• Avoid Soggy Apples: Bake the apples snugly in the dish to retain their shape and prevent them from collapsing.
• Thicken the Sauce: If the caramel sauce isn’t thick enough after baking, transfer it to a small saucepan and simmer it on the stovetop until it reaches your desired consistency.

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Homemade Caramel Baked Apples

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: DessertCuisine: Southern RecipesDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

Total time

55

minutes

Indulge in these irresistible Homemade Caramel Baked Apples—a dessert masterpiece that combines sweet, juicy apples with a luscious, self-made caramel sauce. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressing guests effortlessly, this recipe is your go-to for a comforting and elegant treat. Top with ice cream for the ultimate experience. Dive into the simple steps inspired by top chefs and transform your kitchen into a gourmet haven!

Ingredients

• Dry Ingredients

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/8 tsp ground cloves

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

• Pinch of salt

• Liquid Components

• 3/4 cup water

• 2 tsp cornstarch

• 2 tbsp maple syrup alternatives: honey, golden syrup

• Nuts Seeds

• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional: substitute with oats

• Dairy

• 5 tbsp unsalted butter melted

• Main Ingredients

• apples

• Alternative Ingredients:

• Walnuts or Pecans: Substitute with oats for a nut-free option.

• Maple Syrup: Replace with honey or golden syrup.

• Unsalted Butter: Use vegan butter or coconut oil as a dairy-free alternative.

• Cornflour: Use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as a substitute.

• Apples

Directions

• Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (180°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
• Prepare the Filling – In a mixing bowl, combine chopped walnuts or oats, maple syrup, cinnamon, ground cloves, brown sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated. Refrigerate the mixture if the environment is too warm, which will help it firm up for easier handling. *(Optional: use a food processor for a finer texture.)*
• Prepare the Apples – Slice each apple vertically through the core to create halves. Carefully remove the core using an ice cream scooper, spoon, or a small knife, ensuring the interior is hollowed out without damaging the apple’s structure.
• Assemble in Baking Dish – Arrange the hollowed apple halves snugly in a baking dish, making sure they’re close together to prevent excessive space.
• Add the Filling – Generously spoon the prepared filling into each apple half, distributing it evenly.
• Make the Sauce – In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and a small amount of water to create a slurry. Gradually add the remaining water while stirring to ensure it’s fully dissolved.
• Pour the Sauce – Carefully pour the cornstarch mixture around the apples in the baking dish.
• Bake Covered – Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes to allow the apples to begin softening and the sauce to start thickening.
• Bake Uncovered – Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes. The apples should be tender but not mushy, and the sauce should have thickened into a syrupy caramel.
• Serve – Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Spoon the caramel sauce over the baked apples and add a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent finish.

Equipment

• casserole dish
• Mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Potassium: 300mg
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 30g
• Protein: 6g
• Vitamin A: 10IU
• Vitamin C: 5mg
• Calcium: 50mg
• Iron: 2mg

FAQ-  Homemade Caramel Baked Apples

Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?

Yes! Coconut sugar, date sugar, or even granulated sugar can be used as a substitute for brown sugar, though each will slightly alter the flavor.

What apples work best for baking?

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji apples are excellent choices. Avoid softer varieties like Red Delicious, as they tend to become mushy when baked.

Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Absolutely! Replace the nuts with rolled oats or granola for a nut-free filling option.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the apples and filling separately a day ahead. Assemble them in the baking dish and bake them fresh for the best results.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving to retain their texture and flavor.