Baked Apples with Nuts, Dried Fruit, and Spices Recipe

Introduction

Baked apples make a warm, comforting dessert perfect for any season. This simple recipe combines sweet spices, nuts, and dried fruit to create a flavorful filling inside tender, juicy apples.

Ingredients

• 4–6 large or medium apples
• 1/3 cup chopped nuts (e.g., pecans, almonds)
• 1/3 cup dried fruit (e.g., blueberries, cranberries)
• 1/3 cup granola
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp allspice
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: Wash and dry the apples, then core each apple carefully without cutting through the base to create a hollow space for the filling.
3. Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped nuts, dried fruit, granola, brown sugar, cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
4. Step 4: Spoon the filling mixture generously into each cored apple, packing it firmly.
5. Step 5: Place the stuffed apples upright in a baking dish and add about 3/4 cup of water to the bottom of the dish to help create steam while baking.
6. Step 6: Top each apple with a slice of the melted unsalted butter to add richness and help with browning.
7. Step 7: Bake the apples for 45–60 minutes, or until they are tender but still hold their shape.
8. Step 8: Serve the baked apples warm on their own or with a dollop of yogurt or your favorite sauce.

Tips & Variations

• Try swapping granola for oats for a chewier texture or adding a splash of maple syrup to the filling for extra sweetness.
• If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar or use tart apples like Granny Smith.
• For a dairy-free option, replace butter with coconut oil.
• Add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for a different spice profile.

Storage

Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The texture may soften slightly after storing, but the flavors will remain delicious.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Yes, you can use any variety of apples. Firmer apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith hold up best during baking, while softer apples may become very mushy.

Can I prepare baked apples ahead of time?

You can assemble the apples with the filling in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Add the butter and bake just before serving for best results.

Baked Apples with Nuts, Dried Fruit, and Spices Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 117 reviews

Delight in these warm, comforting baked apples stuffed with a sweet and crunchy mixture of nuts, dried fruit, granola, and aromatic spices. Easy to prepare and perfect as a cozy dessert or a wholesome snack, they bring together natural sweetness and a satisfying texture with minimal effort.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45-60 minutes
• Total Time: 60-75 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Apples

• 4–6 large or medium apples

Filling

• 1/3 cup chopped nuts (e.g., pecans, almonds)
• 1/3 cup dried fruit (e.g., blueberries, cranberries)
• 1/3 cup granola
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp allspice
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Topping

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted or sliced for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the apples evenly.
2. Prepare Apples: Wash and dry each apple thoroughly. Carefully core the apples, making sure not to puncture the base so the filling stays inside during baking.
3. Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped nuts, dried fruit, granola, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Stuff Apples: Generously fill each cored apple with the prepared mixture, packing it lightly to create a flavorful center.
5. Arrange and Add Water: Place the apples upright in a baking dish. Pour about 3/4 cup of water into the dish to generate steam during baking, which will keep the apples moist.
6. Add Butter: Top each filled apple with a slice of unsalted butter to enhance flavor and aid caramelization as it melts.
7. Bake: Bake the apples in the preheated oven for 45–60 minutes. Bake until the apples are tender to the touch but still hold their shape and are not mushy.
8. Serve: Serve the baked apples warm. They can be enjoyed as they are or paired with yogurt or a sauce of your choice for extra richness.

Notes

• Choose firm apples such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith for best baking results.
• The baking water prevents the apples from drying out and helps cook them evenly.
• You can substitute the nuts and dried fruits with your preferred varieties for more personalized flavors.
• Adding a dollop of vanilla yogurt or a drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the dessert experience.
• Store leftover baked apples in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

Keywords: baked apples, stuffed apples, healthy dessert, fall dessert, apple recipe, cinnamon apples, cozy dessert, nutty apples