Decadent Cinnamon Baked Apples Recipe

This Cinnamon Baked Apples Recipe is Your Perfect Fall Dessert. Serve with a dollop of ice cream and caramel sauce!

Say hello to apple season with this incredibly delicious Cinnamon Baked Apples recipe! Stuffed with a brown butter pecan topping and drizzled with caramel sauce, this easy dessert is the epitome of fall flavors. Finish it off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and you have the perfect treat to warm up your autumn nights.

What ingredients do you need for these apple pie bombs?

When it comes to creating the perfect cinnamon baked apple recipe, each ingredient plays a crucial role in the outcome. Here’s a breakdown of why each ingredient is essential to the recipe.

Brown Butter Topping

1. Butter: The butter serves as a base for the brown butter topping, providing a rich, creamy texture and mouthfeel. When browned, it gives off a nutty aroma that pairs wonderfully with the apples.
2. Vanilla Extract: This ingredient adds a subtle sweetness and flavor complexity to the brown butter topping, enhancing its overall richness.
3. Dark Brown Sugar: The molasses in dark brown sugar blends well with the tartness of the apples, balancing their natural sweetness. It also contributes to a soft and moist topping.
4. All-Purpose Flour: Flour is necessary for binding all the topping ingredients together, making sure you get that delightful crumble texture.
5. Pecans: These add a crunchy texture to the topping, providing a nice contrast to the soft baked apples. Pecans also contribute nutty flavors that complement the brown butter.
6. Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices offer warmth and depth, adding to the autumnal flavors of this delicious dessert.
7. Salt: Just a pinch elevates all the flavors, making each bite more satisfying.

Apples

1. Fuji Apples: Chosen for their sweet and crisp characteristics, Fuji apples hold up well during baking and provide the perfect texture. However, you can experiment with apple varieties to suit your preferences.
2. Brown Sugar: This enhances the natural sugars in the apples, drawing out their sweetness while complementing the spices.
3. Cinnamon: This is the star spice, adding a warm, aromatic quality that’s synonymous with apple desserts.
4. Water: A small amount of water in the bottom of the baking dish helps steam the apples as they bake, ensuring they are tender but not mushy.

Topping

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold texture of a scoop of vanilla ice cream juxtaposes the warm, baked apples, making each bite a delightful experience.
2. Caramel Sauce: This optional addition contributes another layer of sweetness and depth, tying the whole dish together.

FAQs

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

For this recipe, Fuji apples work best because of their sweet flavors and crisp texture. However, Honeycrisp apples and Pink Lady apples are good alternatives.

Can I Use Alternate Sweeteners?

Certainly! Maple syrup or light brown sugar can be used as a substitute for dark brown sugar. Just make sure to adjust to taste.

How Long is the Bake Time?

Expect a bake time of around 35-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the apples are tender but not mushy.

Tips and Tricks

1. Best Way to Core Apples: Using an apple corer is the most efficient method, but a melon baller or a small spoon also works.
2. Checking Doneness: A paring knife should easily slide through the center of the apple when it’s done.
3. Add Liquid: Always add a ½ cup of water or a little apple cider to the baking dish to keep the apples moist during baking.

Variations

1. Tart Apples: If you prefer tart over sweet, consider using Granny Smith apples.
2. Healthy Baked Apples: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour and the butter with coconut oil for a healthier version.
3. Apple Varieties: Don’t be afraid to mix and match apple varieties for a nuanced flavor profile.

Where to Serve

These cinnamon apples are not just a delicious dessert but can also serve as a wonderful side dish. Imagine them next to pork chops or as a topping on apple cinnamon muffins!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat at room temperature or in the microwave for a few seconds.

Common Problems and How to Avoid Them

1. Soggy Apples: To avoid this, choose apple varieties known for their crisp texture, such as Fuji or Honey Crisp apples.
2. Too Sweet: Cut back on added sugar or opt for natural sugars from honey or maple syrup.
3. Overbaking: Keep an eye on your oven to ensure you don’t pass the ideal bake time.

Tips for Making This Recipe With Kids

1. Apple Slices for Little Hands: Use an apple slicer to make smaller apple slices for your little girl or boy to enjoy.
2. Let Them Mix: Allow your kids to mix the brown butter topping in a small bowl. It’s a great way to get them involved!
3. Safe Coring: Opt for a melon baller or a grapefruit spoon for safe and easy apple coring.

Topping Options

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of the apple is a timeless classic.
2. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the baked apple’s sweet and nutty flavors.
3. Nut Variations: Try using walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different crunch.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
2. Easy Recipe: Despite the gourmet taste, this is an easy recipe anyone can tackle.
3. Versatile: Whether as a delicious treat after dinner or as a side dish, these cinnamon baked apples are perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re blessed with an abundance of apples from your own apple orchard or you’re picking up a bag from the local farmer’s market, today’s recipe is the perfect way to celebrate the fall season. So, grab your baking dish, and let’s get baking!

What are some other amazing apple recipes to try out?

• Easy Classic Applesauce Cake Recipe
• Soft Chewy Caramel Apple Cookies Recipe
• Easy Apple Cake With Caramel Topping
• Amazing Apple Cider Walnut Cupcakes For Easy Fall Baking

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