Apple Pie Baked Apples

There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of baked apples wafting through the house on a crisp fall evening. Growing up, Sundays were sacred family days, often spent in the cozy kitchen of my grandmother’s home, where she transformed simple ingredients into magic. One of my favorite treats from those days was her baked apple dessert. Years later, I’ve taken a hands-on approach to this memory, crafting a recipe for Apple Pie Baked Apples that not only revives those wonderful moments but creates new ones for myself and my loved ones. These warm, cinnamon-spiced delights, stuffed with a crumbly topping, bring the essence of autumn to any table and are perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 15 minutes
• Active Cooking: 30 minutes
• Total Duration: 45 minutes
• Portion Size: Serves 4
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: Approximately 350
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 58g
• Fats: 15g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugars: 33g
• Sodium: 35mg

Why You’ll Love This Apple Pie Baked Apples

This recipe is not just delicious; it also embodies the heart of home cooking. Each ingredient complements the others, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The crunchy nuts and chewy oats add a delightful contrast to the soft, warm apples. Drizzle your baked apples with a little caramel sauce or enjoy them with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, and you have a dessert that’s undeniably comforting — like a warm hug on a chilly day.

The Complete Cooking Journey

Making these Apple Pie Baked Apples is as simple as it is rewarding. You’ll begin by preheating your oven and prepping the apples to be transformed. The assembly is a fun, creative process that can involve little hands if you have kids eager to join in the kitchen. Once baked, the sweet, spiced aroma will fill your home, and the wait will be well worth it!

Ingredients:

• 4 large apples
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup apple pie filling (optional)
• Vanilla ice cream (for serving)

Method:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). The warm air will set the perfect stage for the apples to bake beautifully.

Step 2: Core the Apples

Using a sharp knife or an apple corer, gently core the apples, making sure not to cut all the way through. You want them to maintain their shape and hold in all the delicious filling.

Step 3: Mix the Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, rolled oats, nuts, melted butter, flour, and vanilla extract. Mix well until you achieve a crumbly consistency, the kind that makes you want to dig in with a spoon.

Step 4: Stuff the Apples

Generously stuff each cored apple with the crumbly mixture. For an extra touch of decadence, top with a spoonful of apple pie filling.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish. Add a little water to the bottom to help steam the apples as they bake, keeping them moist and tender.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the apples are tender and the filling is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Serve the baked apples warm, optionally topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of hot and cold is a delightful experience!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These Apple Pie Baked Apples are amazing on their own or served alongside a rich scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can pair them with a warm cup of spiced cider or a rich caramel sauce for drizzling. They also make a fantastic finish to a hearty fall meal or a sweet brunch treat!

Storage & Leftovers Guide

If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt it!), store your baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up or back into the oven until hot.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

• Choose firm apples that are less likely to fall apart while baking. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are excellent choices!
• Feel free to experiment with different nuts or even add some dried cranberries for an extra flavor boost.
• If you love a gooey center, make sure to pack in that apple pie filling!

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

• Swap out the walnuts or pecans for slivered almonds or even coconut for a twist.
• Add a pinch of ginger or cloves for an added layer of spiciness.
• For a healthier option, substitute half of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Reader Questions & Solutions

1. Can I use any type of apple?

   • Yes! Every apple has a unique flavor, but firmer varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are recommended for baking.

2. What if I don’t have nuts?

   • You can replace the nuts with additional rolled oats, or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version.

3. Is there a gluten-free option?

   • Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond meal for a gluten-free treat.

4. How do I know when the apples are done?

   • They’re ready when they are tender all the way through, yet still holding their shape. You can test by gently poking them with a fork.

5. Can I prepare them ahead of time?

   • Yes, you can stuff the apples and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking!

Wrapping Up

These Apple Pie Baked Apples are a delightful way to enjoy one of fall’s most beloved fruits. Whether you’re gathering around the table on a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and happiness to your home. So roll up your sleeves, pour your heart into the kitchen, and let the aroma of baked apples create a cozy masterpiece that will be cherished by all who gather to enjoy it!

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