Honey Cinnamon Baked Apples are a delightful and healthy dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the warm flavors of honey and cinnamon. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion. With just a few ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a mouthwatering treat that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dessert or a sweet snack, these baked apples are sure to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Honey Cinnamon Baked Apples will cook evenly and come out perfectly tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Wash the apples thoroughly and remove the cores using an apple corer or a knife. Make sure to leave the bottoms intact so that the filling doesn’t spill out during baking.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a small bowl, combine the honey, ground cinnamon, chopped nuts, and raisins (if using). Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated with honey.
Step 4: Stuff the Apples
Carefully stuff each apple with the honey and cinnamon mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in. Place the stuffed apples upright in a baking dish.
Step 5: Add Butter and Water
Dot the tops of the stuffed apples with small pieces of butter. Pour the water into the bottom of the baking dish to create steam while baking, which helps keep the apples moist.
Step 6: Bake the Apples
Bake the apples in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized. You can check for doneness by inserting a fork into the apples; they should be soft but not mushy.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the baked apples from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, drizzled with any remaining honey from the baking dish, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any variety of apples that you enjoy. Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Fuji apples work well for baking due to their sweetness and firmness.
Can I make these baked apples ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apples and stuff them ahead of time. Just cover them and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold from the fridge.
What can I serve with Honey Cinnamon Baked Apples?
These baked apples are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
Are Honey Cinnamon Baked Apples healthy?
Yes, this dessert is a healthier alternative to many traditional sweets. Apples are high in fiber and vitamins, and using honey instead of refined sugar adds natural sweetness.