Ready in: 45 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Up to 3 days in the refrigerator.Quick Answer
Transform fresh apples into a warm, comforting dessert by baking them with a delicious crisp topping.As I look out my New York City kitchen window, the vibrant trees of Central Park are adorned with hues of amber and gold, a beautiful reminder that fall is officially here. Apple-picking season has arrived, and there's nothing more satisfying than transforming fresh, crisp apples into a warm, comforting dessert. This Apple Crisp Baked Apples recipe is perfect for my Thanksgiving gatherings and upcoming holiday celebrations, and I can't wait to share my tried-and-true method with you.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously warm and comforting, perfect for cozy fall evenings.
- Simple to prepare, making it ideal for holiday gatherings and busy schedules.
- Flexible recipe allows for customizations with your favorite nuts or spices.
- Healthy twist on dessert with fresh apples and wholesome ingredients.
- Great leftovers that can be easily reheated for a quick treat.
Ingredients
Here's what you'll need to make the delicious Apple Crisp Baked Apples:
Fruit
- 4 medium-sized Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Crisp Topping
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How to Make Apple Crisp Baked Apples (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create a cozy dessert that will warm your heart and impress your guests.
Step 1: Prep the Apples
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Start by washing and drying your chosen apples. Carefully core them, creating a hollow center without splitting the apple. I find using a paring knife handy for this. Once cored, drizzle the insides of the apples with lemon juice to enhance their flavor and prevent browning.
Step 2: Make the Crisp Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and a pinch of salt. When I first mix these ingredients, the aroma of cinnamon wafts through the air, transporting me to cozy autumn days. Pour in the melted butter, and if you're feeling adventurous, toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans. Combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 3: Fill the Apples
Generously spoon the crisp topping mixture into the cavity of each apple. I like to mound it up a little, ensuring each bite will be loaded with deliciousness.
Step 4: Bake
Place the filled apples upright in a baking dish and add a splash of water to the bottom to create steam and moisture during baking. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the apples are tender but still hold their shape, and the topping is golden brown. Keep an eye on them-there's nothing quite like the nutty aroma of baking apples to draw everyone into the kitchen.
Step 5: Serve
I recommend letting these beauties cool for a few minutes before serving. They are delightful on their own or served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra festive touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing soft or overly sweet apples that won't hold up during baking.
- Neglecting to add lemon juice, which prevents browning and enhances flavor.
- Overbaking the apples, causing them to become mushy instead of tender.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Prep the apples the night before and refrigerate them for convenience.
- Experiment with spices like clove or ginger to personalize the recipe.
- Add different types of nuts or chocolate chips to the topping for a fun twist.
- Ensure to use a healthy pinch of salt in the filling to enhance sweetness.
Variations
- Substitute **Honeycrisp** apples for a sweeter flavor.
- Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
- Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for added texture and flavor.
- Mix in a sprinkle of cardamom for a unique taste.
How to Serve
- Serve warm on their own for a comforting treat.
- Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
- Garnish with fresh whipped cream for added indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Prep the apples the night before, storing them in a cool place, ready to bake.
- Once cooled, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
- Freezing not recommended, as it may affect the texture of the baked apples.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through testing this recipe, I found that the best apples retain their structure after baking. Adding a pinch of salt in the filling enhances the natural sweetness of the apples. I envision these baked apples as a centerpiece for Thanksgiving, spreading warmth and joy among loved ones.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 apples · Serving Size: 1 apple
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~210 calories · 2g protein · 36g carbs · 8g fat
Recipe by:
Cozy Apple Crisp Baked Apples for Fall
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Start by washing and drying your chosen apples. Carefully core them, creating a hollow center without splitting the apple. Drizzle the insides of the apples with lemon juice to enhance their flavor and prevent browning.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and a pinch of salt. Pour in the melted butter, and toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans. Combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Generously spoon the crisp topping mixture into the cavity of each apple.
- Place the filled apples upright in a baking dish and add a splash of water to the bottom. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
- Let these beauties cool for a few minutes before serving. They are delightful on their own or served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
FAQs
What type of apples are best for Apple Crisp Baked Apples?
The best apples for this recipe are those that have a crisp texture, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Avoid soft or overly sweet apples as they may not hold their shape during baking.
Can I prepare the apples ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the apples the night before and store them in a cool place until you're ready to bake. This makes them convenient for holiday gatherings.
How can I prevent the apples from browning before baking?
Drizzling the insides of the cored apples with lemon juice helps enhance their flavor and prevents browning. It's an essential step in maintaining their vibrant appearance.
What can I substitute for nuts in the recipe?
If you prefer not to use nuts, you can simply omit them from the topping. Alternatively, you can experiment with chocolate chips or other types of seeds for added texture.
How long can I store leftover Apple Crisp Baked Apples?
Once cooled, the baked apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving for the best experience.
