Stuffed Baked Apples

The delightful Stuffed Baked Apples are one of those recipes that transport you to cozy autumn evenings. I still remember the first time I made them—I was in my tiny kitchen, the aroma of cinnamon and baked fruit swirling around me. It was a chilly fall day, and the thought of these sweet, warm apples filled with crunchy pecans and tart cranberries was just what I needed. The first bite was a revelation; the sweetness of the apples paired beautifully with the nuttiness of the pecans and the slight tartness from the cranberries. It was a moment of pure comfort, and I knew I had stumbled upon something special.

What I love most about Stuffed Baked Apples is how simple yet impressive they are. You can whip them up for a family gathering, a cozy dinner date, or even just as a treat for yourself after a long day. Serve them warm, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream, and you’ve got a dessert that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. The combination of flavors and textures speaks for itself, making it a perfect end to any meal.

What You’ll Need for Stuffed Baked Apples

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for a successful dish, and Stuffed Baked Apples is no exception. Each ingredient plays a significant role in creating the final flavor profile. The tartness of the apples, the sweetness of the brown sugar, and the crunch from the nuts all come together to create a delightful dessert that warms the heart.

• 2 large Granny Smith Apples – These tart apples hold their shape beautifully when baked and provide a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the filling.
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans – Adding a nutty crunch, pecans complement the other flavors perfectly and bring a delightful texture.
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries – Their tartness adds another layer of flavor and a pop of color to the dish.
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar – This sweetener adds depth and a caramel-like flavor that pairs wonderfully with the apples.
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon – A warm spice that enhances the overall flavor, making every bite cozy and inviting.
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – This adds moisture and richness to the filling, ensuring it’s deliciously satisfying.
• Fresh lemon juice – A little acidity helps brighten the flavors of the apples and filling.
• Fresh orange juice – Adding a hint of citrus brings freshness to the mix.
• Whipped cream or ice cream (optional) – For serving, these toppings add a creamy element that elevates the dessert.

Stuffed Baked Apples Instructions

Cooking Stuffed Baked Apples is as enjoyable as indulging in them. Start by gathering your ingredients and preheating your oven. The anticipation of that delicious aroma filling the kitchen is part of the fun! Follow these simple steps to create a dessert that will impress everyone.

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the perfect temperature for baking and will allow the apples to cook evenly.
2. Line a baking sheet or pan with parchment paper and set it aside. This will prevent the apples from sticking and make cleanup much easier.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, dried cranberries, brown sugar, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Be sure to combine them thoroughly, so every bite is packed with flavor.
4. Pour the melted butter over the mixture and blend well. The butter will help everything stick together and create a rich filling.
5. Take the Granny Smith apples and carefully slice off the top, creating a small opening. Use a paring knife or an apple corer to core the middle, removing the seeds, but leave the bottom intact so the filling doesn’t fall out.
6. Drizzle the juice from half of a lemon over the flesh of the apple. This step adds brightness and helps prevent browning.
7. Pack the nut and cranberry mixture into the center of each apple, pressing down gently to ensure they’re filled well. You want each apple to be brimming with that delicious filling.
8. Next, cut a fresh orange into quarters. Drizzle the juice from one-fourth of the orange over the stuffed apples, enhancing the flavor with a touch of citrus.
9. Place the stuffed apples on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes. The apples should become tender and begin to caramelize.
10. Once they are golden and fragrant, remove them from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for that added indulgence!

Make It Your Own

There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen! Stuffed Baked Apples can be easily tailored to suit your tastes. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked stuffed apples for future use. Just thaw and bake when you’re ready!
• Pairing: Serve these apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
• Variation: Experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a different flavor.
• Garnish: Top with a sprinkle of chopped mint or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added decadence.
• Serving size: These stuffed apples make a great individual dessert; consider serving them in ramekins for a classy touch.

Serving Ideas for Stuffed Baked Apples

When it comes to serving Stuffed Baked Apples, the possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation:

• Serve warm: Warm Stuffed Baked Apples are best enjoyed straight from the oven. The warmth enhances the flavors and ensures that the filling is gooey and delightful.
• Top with cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy texture that perfectly complements the baked apples.
• Pair with drinks: Serve these apples with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy dessert experience.
• Seasonal occasions: These apples are perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, or any holiday celebration!
• Garnish with herbs: Consider garnishing with fresh mint or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an elegant touch.
• Make it a dessert bar: Set up a dessert bar where guests can customize their Stuffed Baked Apples with various toppings like nuts, sauces, or spices.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Stuffed Baked Apples are truly a wholesome and heartwarming dessert that celebrates the flavors of fall. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or at a festive gathering, they never fail to impress. I encourage you to try this recipe and bring a taste of nostalgia to your table. You won’t regret it, and your taste buds will thank you for it!

Stuffed Baked Apples

The ultimate comfort food, Stuffed Baked Apples are the perfect blend of sweet and tart, with a crunchy pecan and cranberry filling that warms you from the inside out. This easy dessert is a staple for fall gatherings and Thanksgiving, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. Make it tonight for a cozy, satisfying treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 2 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Frying Pan
• Oven

Ingredients

  

• 2 large Granny Smith Apples
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Fresh lemon juice
• Fresh orange juice
• Whipped cream or ice cream optional

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the perfect temperature for baking and will allow the apples to cook evenly.
• Line a baking sheet or pan with parchment paper and set it aside. This will prevent the apples from sticking and make cleanup much easier.
• In a small bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, dried cranberries, brown sugar, cinnamon, and kosher salt. Be sure to combine them thoroughly, so every bite is packed with flavor.
• Pour the melted butter over the mixture and blend well. The butter will help everything stick together and create a rich filling.
• Take the Granny Smith apples and carefully slice off the top, creating a small opening. Use a paring knife or an apple corer to core the middle, removing the seeds, but leave the bottom intact so the filling doesn’t fall out.
• Drizzle the juice from half of a lemon over the flesh of the apple. This step adds brightness and helps prevent browning.
• Pack the nut and cranberry mixture into the center of each apple, pressing down gently to ensure they’re filled well. You want each apple to be brimming with that delicious filling.
• Next, cut a fresh orange into quarters. Drizzle the juice from one-fourth of the orange over the stuffed apples, enhancing the flavor with a touch of citrus.
• Place the stuffed apples on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes. The apples should become tender and begin to caramelize.
• Once they are golden and fragrant, remove them from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for that added indulgence!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

You can freeze unbaked stuffed apples for future use. Just thaw and bake when you’re ready!

These apples are delicious on their own, but serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes them to the next level!

Experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a different flavor.

Top with a sprinkle of chopped mint or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added decadence.

These stuffed apples make a great individual dessert; consider serving them in ramekins for a classy touch.

Keyword Baked Apples, Fall Desserts, Stuffed Apples, Thanksgiving Recipes

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Meet Maya Carlson

I believe that every dish tells a story through its colors and textures. I apply my artistic eye to everything we make. I love being hands-on with every recipe, helping to plate a savory stew just as beautifully as a dessert. I enjoy the challenge of making every single genre of food look as good as it tastes. If we are cooking, I am right there in the mix, styling and seasoning until it’s perfect.