Baked Apples

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy how easy these baked apples are to prepare with just a handful of ingredients. The filling is versatile, so I can use whatever nuts or dried fruit I have on hand. I also like how they can be served on their own for a lighter dessert or dressed up with vanilla ice cream for a decadent finish. For me, they’re the perfect blend of nostalgic comfort and simple elegance.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

4 medium Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp grated nutmeg
2 tbsp butter, cut into small pieces
1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
Water (for baking)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Core the apples, leaving the bottoms intact.
In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, nuts, and dried fruit.
Stuff each apple with the mixture, filling the hollow center.
Place apples in a baking dish, dot the tops with butter, and pour about half an inch of water into the dish.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the apples are tender but not mushy.
Let cool slightly before serving warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4. Prep time is 15 minutes, bake time is 30 minutes, for a total of 45 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I drizzle maple syrup or honey over the apples before baking for extra sweetness. If I want more spice, I add ground cloves or ginger to the filling. I also like swapping the nuts for granola, which gives the apples a crunchy topping.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the apples in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes or microwave them for 30–45 seconds.

FAQs

What are the best apples for baking?

I prefer Granny Smith for their tartness or Honeycrisp for their sweetness.

Do I have to peel the apples?

No, I leave the skin on to help them hold their shape.

Can I make baked apples ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare them in advance and bake just before serving.

Can I use oats in the filling?

Yes, oats make the filling heartier and more like an apple crisp.

Can I bake them without nuts?

Yes, I simply leave out the nuts or replace them with more dried fruit.

How do I keep the apples from collapsing?

I don’t overbake, and I choose firm apple varieties that hold up well.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, I substitute coconut oil or vegan butter for regular butter.

What can I serve with baked apples?

I like them with ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Can I cook these in the microwave?

Yes, I microwave a stuffed apple for 4–5 minutes until tender.

How do I know when the apples are done?

They should be fork-tender but still hold their shape.

Conclusion

I love how baked apples take such simple ingredients and create a dessert that feels both wholesome and indulgent. The warm spices, sweet filling, and tender fruit make them a go-to fall treat in my kitchen. For me, they’re a nostalgic and comforting dish that never goes out of style.