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!
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.