Baked Apples with Cinnamon

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Delicious baked apples with cinnamon ready to be served.

Baked Apples with Cinnamon: A Cozy Autumn Delight

As the leaves begin to turn golden and the air takes on a crispness that heralds the arrival of fall, few desserts evoke the warmth and nostalgia of the season quite like baked apples with cinnamon. This classic dish combines the natural sweetness of apples with the comforting spices of cinnamon, creating a treat that is both simple and satisfying.

Why Baked Apples?

Baked apples are not only a delicious dessert but also a wholesome option that allows you to enjoy a healthy fruit in a decadent form. Apples are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious choice. Baking them enhances their natural sweetness and transforms their texture into a soft, comforting filling treat that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful dessert, you’ll need:

  • 4 large apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or your favorite variety)
  • 1 cup brown sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/2 cup nuts (walnuts or pecans are great choices)
  • 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (or a vegan alternative)
  • 1 cup apple juice or water (for steaming)

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your baked apples cook evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Core the Apples

Using a corer or a sharp knife, carefully remove the core of each apple, creating a hollow center. Be sure not to cut all the way through the bottom, as you’ll need to retain the base to hold the filling.

Step 3: Create the Filling

In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, chopped nuts, and raisins. Mix the ingredients well until they form a sticky filling that you can easily pack into the hollowed apples.

Step 4: Stuff the Apples

Fill each apple with the prepared mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure they’re packed well. Place a small pat of butter on top of each filled apple.

Step 5: Bake

In a baking dish, place the filled apples upright, and pour apple juice or water into the bottom of the dish. This will create steam while baking and keep the apples from drying out. Bake the apples for 25-30 minutes or until they are soft and tender but still hold their shape.

Serving Suggestions

Once your baked apples are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. They can be served warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch of indulgence, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top, along with a sprinkle of additional cinnamon.

Conclusion

Baked apples with cinnamon are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With minimal ingredients and a simple preparation process, you can enjoy this classic dessert with family and friends. Whether served at a holiday gathering or as a comforting end to a cozy meal, these baked apples will surely bring joy to any table. So go ahead, embrace the season, and indulge in this sweet, spiced treat that warms the heart as much as it warms the belly. Happy baking!