Baked Apples

Baked apples always remind me of my grandmother’s kitchen because she used to make them when the air started to cool and the leaves began to fall linking the scent of cinnamon and sweet fruit with comfort and warmth. The first time I tried to recreate her version I ended up adding a little twist of my own and it turned out to be one of the easiest and most satisfying fall desserts I’ve ever made.

Now whenever I need a quick and healthy treat that still feels indulgent I turn to these baked apples linking that moment with cozy evenings and minimal cleanup. They’re naturally sweet and filled with oats and spices which makes them both nourishing and nostalgic.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Apples – The star of the dish softening beautifully while keeping their shape
• Rolled oats – Add texture and a little chew to the filling
• Brown sugar – Brings a rich caramel sweetness to the filling
• Ground cinnamon – Warms the flavor and pairs perfectly with apples
• Nutmeg – Adds a little depth and spice to the mix
• Butter – Melts into the filling making it rich and flavorful
• Chopped nuts – Add crunch and a nutty flavor (optional but delicious)
• Raisins – A chewy sweet touch that complements the apples
• Vanilla extract – Rounds out the filling with a sweet scent
• Water – Helps steam the apples during baking keeping them moist

Tools You’ll Need

• Apple corer or paring knife – I use this to carefully core the apples without cutting through the bottom
• Mixing bowl – For stirring together the oat filling
• Measuring spoons and cups – To keep the ingredient ratios just right
• Baking dish – Holds the apples snugly and allows them to bake evenly
• Spoon – Perfect for stuffing the apples with the filling
• Foil – I use it to cover the apples while baking to keep them tender

Instructions

Step 1:

I preheat the oven to 375°F and get my baking dish ready by lightly greasing it or adding a splash of water to the bottom.

Step 2:

Using a paring knife or apple corer I carefully core each apple leaving about half an inch at the bottom so the filling doesn’t fall through.

Step 3:

In a mixing bowl I combine the rolled oats brown sugar cinnamon nutmeg chopped nuts raisins melted butter and vanilla extract until the mixture resembles a moist crumble.

Step 4:

I spoon the filling into each hollowed apple pressing it in gently and piling a little extra on top.

Step 5:

Next I arrange the stuffed apples in the baking dish and pour a little water into the bottom of the dish to help steam them while they bake.

Step 6:

I cover the dish loosely with foil and bake the apples for about 25 minutes then I remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the apples are fork-tender and the topping is golden.

Step 7:

Once done I let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They smell amazing and taste even better warm.

Tips

I like to use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji because they hold their shape without turning mushy

You can easily make this recipe vegan by using plant-based butter

If you love extra spice try adding a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the filling

These pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt

Ways to Serve

Serve warm with ice cream for a comforting dessert

Enjoy for breakfast with a drizzle of maple syrup and a spoonful of yogurt

Slice in half and serve with whipped cream as a light party treat

Pack one in a lunchbox for a naturally sweet midday snack

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Baked Apples ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake them in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

What apples work best for Baked Apples?

I prefer firm sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp Fuji or Granny Smith because they hold up well while baking.

Can I freeze Baked Apples?

Absolutely. Once baked and cooled wrap them individually and freeze. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these Baked Apples soon! They’re a simple heartwarming dish that fills your home with the best fall aromas and flavors. Let me know how they turn out and don’t forget to save the recipe for those chilly nights ahead.

Happy Cooking!

Print