Name: Baked Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala); 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional); 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries; 2 tbsp butter, cut into 4 pieces; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup water or apple cider

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These baked apples are warm, tender, and filled with a sweet, spiced mixture that makes them feel like a cozy slice of fall. I love how simple they are to prepare, yet they deliver such comforting, nostalgic flavors. Whether I serve them as a dessert, a brunch treat, or even a lighter holiday dish, they always bring that homemade, rustic charm to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to make with ingredients I usually have on hand. The apples turn soft and juicy in the oven, and the cinnamon-spiced filling makes my kitchen smell amazing. I can enjoy them plain, with a drizzle of maple syrup, or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s a fuss-free dessert that feels indulgent and wholesome at the same time. Baked Apples

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Apples (firm and sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji work best)
Brown sugar
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Raisins or dried cranberries
Butter
Vanilla extract
Water or apple cider (for baking liquid)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
I core the apples, leaving the bottom intact to hold the filling. I use a small spoon or paring knife to remove the seeds and create a hollow center.
In a bowl, I mix brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, nuts, and raisins together.
I stuff each apple with the mixture, packing it in tightly.
I place the apples in a baking dish and add a bit of water or apple cider to the bottom of the dish to keep them moist.
I top each apple with a small piece of butter and drizzle a bit of vanilla extract over them.
I cover the dish with foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Then I uncover and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the apples are soft and bubbling.
I let them cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. I usually need about 15 minutes to prep and 40–45 minutes to bake, depending on the size of the apples.

Variations

Sometimes I add oats to the filling to make them more like an apple crisp. I’ve also used maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a deeper flavor. If I want a boozy twist, I splash in a little bourbon or spiced rum before baking. For a nut-free version, I leave out the walnuts or swap in sunflower seeds.

storage/reheating

I store leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I microwave them for about a minute or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. They’re great cold too, especially when paired with yogurt for breakfast.

FAQs

What type of apples work best for baking?

I prefer firm, sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala. They hold their shape well and don’t get too mushy in the oven.

Can I make baked apples ahead of time?

Yes, I often prep them earlier in the day and bake them when I’m ready to serve. I can also fully bake them and reheat just before serving.

Can I use different dried fruits?

Absolutely. I’ve used chopped dates, apricots, or dried cherries depending on what I have. They all bring a slightly different flavor.

What can I serve with baked apples?

I like topping them with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dollop of Greek yogurt. They’re also delicious with granola or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

How do I keep the apples from falling apart while baking?

I avoid overbaking and choose firmer apples that hold their shape. Covering with foil during the first part of baking helps keep them moist without breaking down too quickly.

Conclusion

Baked apples are one of my favorite easy desserts when I want something cozy and homemade. I love how customizable they are and how they fill the house with the smell of cinnamon and apples. Whether I dress them up or keep them simple, they always feel special and satisfying.