Biting into a warm, cinnamon-dusted apple drizzled with melted brown sugar is like getting a cozy hug from your grandma. The sweet aroma wafts through the air, wrapping around you like a soft blanket, making it impossible not to smile. These brown sugar cinnamon baked apples are the perfect blend of tender fruit and nostalgic flavors, ready to sweep you off your feet and transport you to simpler times.
Imagine gathering around the table on a chilly autumn evening, laughter mingling with the scent of spices filling the kitchen. These baked apples are not just dessert; they are memories waiting to happen. Whether it’s Thanksgiving dinner or a casual weeknight treat, they promise to elevate any occasion into something special. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will leave you craving more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These brown sugar cinnamon baked apples are incredibly easy to prepare, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying
- Their delightful flavor profile combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon and brown sugar
- Visually appealing, these apples make a stunning centerpiece for any dessert table
- They are versatile enough to be served warm or chilled, with ice cream or whipped cream!
Everyone at my last family gathering was so enamored by these baked apples that I almost didn’t get a serving myself!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
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Brown Sugar: Opt for dark brown sugar for richer caramel notes that enhance the apple’s natural sweetness.
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Cinnamon: Use fresh ground cinnamon for maximum flavor; it’s what makes these apples sing!
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Butter: A little melted butter goes a long way in creating that gooey topping we all love.
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Walnuts (optional): Chopped walnuts add delightful crunch and nutty flavor; feel free to skip if you’re not a fan.
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Vanilla Ice Cream (optional): Serve these warm apples topped with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and that your kitchen will smell heavenly before you know it.
Prepare the Apples: Core each apple carefully without slicing them open. You want them intact so they hold all that delicious filling.
Create the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts if using. Mix until well combined; this will be our sweet treasure.
Stuff Those Apples: Generously fill each cored apple with your tasty mixture. Don’t be shy—pack it in there! Drizzle some melted butter on top for good measure.
Bake Away!: Place your stuffed apples in a baking dish and pour water around them (about an inch deep). Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until tender but still holding their shape.
Serve and Enjoy!: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving warm topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired. Get ready for smiles all around!
These brown sugar cinnamon baked apples are sure to become a favorite in your home! Enjoy every bite as you savor the comforting flavors reminiscent of home-cooked goodness. Happy baking!
You Must Know
- Brown Sugar Cinnamon Baked Apples are a delightful treat that fills your kitchen with warm, comforting aromas
- They are simple to prepare and can easily be customized
- Enjoy them as a dessert or a cozy snack; they’re perfect for any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, core and slice the apples, then mix the brown sugar and cinnamon while preheating your oven. This method ensures everything is ready when it’s time to bake, maximizing flavor and efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding nuts or raisins for extra texture and flavor. Alternatively, try drizzling maple syrup on top before baking for added sweetness and depth.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm, preserving their deliciousness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make your Brown Sugar Cinnamon Baked Apples even more delicious, choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture
- Avoid overcooking them to maintain their shape
- And don’t skip the scoop of vanilla ice cream—it’s a game-changer!
It was a chilly autumn evening when I first made these baked apples for my family. The look of joy on their faces as they savored each bite was priceless.
FAQ
What kind of apples work best for Brown Sugar Cinnamon Baked Apples?
Firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith retain their texture during baking.
Can I use other sweeteners instead of brown sugar?
Yes, maple syrup or honey can replace brown sugar for a unique flavor twist.
How long do baked apples last in the refrigerator?
Baked apples can last up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Baked Apples
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Baked Apples make for a heartwarming dessert that captures the essence of cozy autumn evenings. With tender, juicy apples enveloped in a rich blend of cinnamon and brown sugar, each bite is a delightful journey back to cherished family gatherings. Topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, these baked apples transform any occasion into something truly special.
Ingredients
- 4 medium Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Core the apples without slicing them open.
- In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and walnuts.
- Generously fill each apple with the mixture and drizzle melted butter on top.
- Place the apples in a baking dish with about an inch of water around them.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until tender but still intact.
- Serve warm topped with vanilla ice cream if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 baked apple (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding raisins or drizzling maple syrup over the apples before baking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheat as needed.
