Baked Apple Delight: Easy Recipe to Savor

Are you craving a dessert that blends the natural sweetness of apples with the comforting warmth of fall spices? Look no further than this Baked Apple Delight recipe. Not only is it an incredibly simple dish to whip up, but it also provides a delightful fusion of flavors that encapsulates the essence of autumn. This step-by-step guide will walk you through creating this sumptuous treat, ensuring you enjoy every step of the baking journey.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the heart of this recipe, let’s gather all the ingredients necessary to transform simple apples into a Baked Apple Delight:

• 4 large apples (choose sweeter varieties like Gala or Fuji for the best results)
• ¹⁄₄ cup of brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon of nutmeg
• ¹⁄₂ cup of rolled oats
• ¹⁄₄ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans (optional for that extra crunch)
• ¹⁄₄ cup of raisins or dried cranberries
• 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• A pinch of salt

Preparation

Now that our ingredients are laid out, let’s prepare our apples and other components:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash and core the apples, removing the seeds but leaving about a half-inch at the bottom to create a cup shape for the filling.
3. Tip: To prevent the apples from falling over while baking, slice a thin layer from the bottom to create a flat base.

Creating the Filling

Here’s where you mix the ingredients to fill your apple cups:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, oats, nuts (if using), raisins or cranberries, softened butter, and a pinch of salt.
2. Mix everything together until you have a crumbly mixture.
3. Stir in lemon juice to add a touch of tartness that complements the sweetness of the apples.

Baking Process

Now let’s put it all together:

1. Stuff each apple with the prepared filling, ensuring it’s packed well.
2. If there’s any remaining filling, scatter it around the apples in the baking dish for extra goodness.
3. Place apples in a baking dish with about half an inch of water at the bottom to prevent burning and to help bake evenly.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until apples are tender when pierced with a fork.

🔄 Note: Apples might need more or less time depending on their size and firmness, so keep an eye on them after 30 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your Baked Apple Delight:

• Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which melts delightfully into the warm apples.
• A dollop of whipped cream or custard can also make a lovely addition.
• Sprinkle with extra cinnamon if you’d like an even spicier kick.

In crafting this Baked Apple Delight, you're not just baking; you're creating memories. This dessert brings together simplicity and comfort, with each bite offering a burst of flavors that evoke the warmth of autumn. Whether you're sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment alone, this recipe promises to fill your home with the delightful aroma of baked apples, spices, and sweet satisfaction.

Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?

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While you can use any apple, varieties like Gala or Fuji are recommended because they retain their shape well during baking and provide a good balance of sweetness and acidity.

Is it necessary to peel the apples?

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No, peeling the apples is not necessary. The skin adds texture and nutritional value, and it helps the apple hold its shape better during baking.

What if I’m allergic to nuts?

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You can simply omit the nuts from the recipe or substitute them with an equal amount of crushed digestive biscuits or granola for that crunch.