The Best Homemade Baked Apples Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These baked apples are a cozy treat that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a dessert that feels like a warm hug.
- Simple and wholesome: No fancy techniques—just fresh apples stuffed with sweet, cinnamon-spiced goodness.
- Customizable flavors: Swap in your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or even a drizzle of caramel for extra fun.
- Comfort in every bite: The soft, tender apples and gooey filling taste like fall, no matter the season.
Recipe
Baked apples are a classic dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with warm, comforting spices. This simple recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it perfect for a quick treat or a cozy dessert. The apples are cored, filled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture, and baked until tender. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent finish.
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples (such as Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Wash the apples and remove the cores, leaving the bottom intact to create a well.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts (if using).
- Fill the center of each apple with the sugar mixture.
- Top each apple with a few pieces of butter.
- Place the apples in a baking dish and pour the water into the dish.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use apples that hold their shape well during baking.
- Adjust the sugar quantity based on the sweetness of the apples.
- Add raisins or dried cranberries to the filling for extra flavor.
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Small bowl
- Knife
Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Cuisine
American
Serving
4 servings
Nutrition
Baked apples are a nutritious dessert option, offering a good source of fiber and vitamins. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 30 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Fat | 0.5 g |
| Vitamin C | 8% DV |
| Potassium | 6% DV |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my baked apples warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream—it melts just enough to make every bite extra creamy. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll swap in cinnamon or caramel swirl ice cream for a fun twist. A dollop of whipped cream, maybe with a sprinkle of nutmeg, works just as well when I want something lighter.
Ice Cream Pairings
When I serve baked apples, I can’t help but think they’re just begging for a scoop of ice cream to make them even more irresistible. The warm, tender apples and the cool, creamy ice cream create the most amazing texture contrasts, melting together in every bite. I love pairing them with vanilla for its classic flavor profiles that let the cinnamon and apple shine. For something richer, caramel or cinnamon ice cream adds a cozy twist. Even a tangy scoop of caramel swirl or salted caramel works wonders. Trust me, it’s dessert magic you won’t want to miss.
Whipped Cream Options
Though whipped cream might seem like a simple topping, it’s a fantastic way to elevate baked apples to something truly special. I love experimenting with flavor combinations, like adding a hint of cinnamon, vanilla, or even a splash of bourbon for a grown-up twist. When it comes to presentation ideas, piping the cream in elegant swirls or dolloping it casually both work beautifully. I sometimes sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg or cocoa powder on top for extra flair. Whether you’re serving it at a cozy dinner or a fancy dessert, whipped cream adds that perfect finishing touch.
