Delicious Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples Recipe

Indulge in the warm embrace of fall flavors with these irresistible Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples. This wholesome yet indulgent dessert takes fresh apples to a whole new level, filling them with a delectable mixture of oats, pecans, brown sugar, and cinnamon. As they bake, the apples become tender, the oat topping crisps up, and the maple syrup creates a heavenly sauce that’s simply irresistible.

The magic of Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples lies in the perfect harmony of textures and flavors. Picture crispy oat topping meeting warm, tender apples drizzled with pure maple syrup – it’s a symphony for your taste buds. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy family treat on a chilly evening or a show-stopping dessert for your holiday table, these baked apples are sure to delight with every spoonful. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to savor the essence of fall in every bite.

Quick Benefits

• Perfect balance of textures – crispy oat topping meets tender, warm apples
• Simple ingredients that create impressive results
• Healthier alternative to traditional apple pie or crisp
• Easily customizable with your favorite nuts or dried fruits

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples Recipe Recipe

• Perfect balance of textures – crispy oat topping meets tender, warm apples
• Simple ingredients that create impressive results
• Healthier alternative to traditional apple pie or crisp
• Customizable with your favorite nuts or dried fruits
• Heavenly aroma fills your kitchen while baking
• Meal prep friendly – stays good in the fridge for 3-4 days
• Entertaining made easy – prepare components in advance, then bake before guests arrive
• Spectacular with ice cream – the contrast between hot apples and cold ice cream is a delicious treat

Ingredients for Delicious Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples Recipe

For the Fruit Base

• Pure maple syrup for drizzling
• 4 fresh apples, halved and cored
• 1 cup water for baking

For the Oat Topping

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons chopped pecans
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Pro Tips for Delicious Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples Recipe

To make the Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples with Oats, choose firm, medium-sized apples like McIntosh or Honeycrisp for the perfect balance of sweetness and structure. Score the apple skins lightly before baking to prevent splitting and ensure even cooking. Additionally, using real pure maple syrup and dark grade for a richer flavor is key to creating that delicious caramel-like sauce at the bottom of the baking dish.

For the perfect crispy oat topping, let the melted butter cool slightly before mixing with oats to prevent clumping. Old-fashioned oats provide the best texture and nutty flavor when baked. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra crunch and depth. Lastly, be sure to let the baked apples rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of this cozy dessert.

How to Make Delicious Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Step 02

Combine oats, flour, pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a mixing bowl. Pour in melted butter and mix until crumbly.

Step 3: Step 03

Cut each apple in half vertically through the core. Hollow out the center of each half using a spoon or knife, making small triangle cuts to remove the stem and core.

Step 4: Step 04

Arrange the apple halves in a baking dish. Stuff each apple with the oat mixture and drizzle with maple syrup. Add 1 cup of water to the dish, then bake for approximately 1 hour until apples are tender.

Step 5: Step 05

Drizzle each apple with maple syrup before serving warm. Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared and baked the Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples with Oats, it is essential to store any leftovers properly to maintain their freshness. These baked apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When storing the dish, make sure to spoon any remaining sauce from the baking dish over the apples to keep them moist and flavorful.

To reheat the Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples, simply place them in an oven-safe dish and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, but be sure to cover the dish to prevent splattering. Enjoy the reheated baked apples as a delightful dessert or even a sweet breakfast treat with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of granola for added texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegan version of these Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples, you can easily replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan margarine or coconut oil. This substitution will maintain the crispy texture of the oat topping while keeping the dish dairy-free.

If you are looking to make this recipe gluten-free, you can swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. This substitution will ensure that everyone can enjoy these delicious baked apples, even those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Remember to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free to prevent any cross-contamination.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, consider drizzling a little extra pure maple syrup over the warm Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples just before serving. The added touch of sweetness enhances the flavors and creates a beautiful presentation that will surely impress your guests. Additionally, serving these baked apples with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top can elevate the dessert to a whole new level of indulgence.

To create a stunning dessert platter, serve these Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples with a side of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of chopped pecans for added crunch. The combination of warm, tender apples, creamy ice cream, and crunchy nuts offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that will leave your guests craving more. This dessert not only tastes amazing but also makes for a visually appealing and Instagram-worthy presentation at any gathering.

FAQs for Delicious Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples Recipe

Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Absolutely! While McIntosh and Honeycrisp apples are recommended for their balanced sweetness and firm texture, feel free to use your favorite apple variety. Just keep in mind that different apples may result in slight variations in texture and flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the apples and the oat topping separately a day before, then assemble and bake them when needed. This is a great option for meal prep or when entertaining guests, allowing you to enjoy the fresh-baked aroma without the last-minute rush.

How can I prevent the oat topping from clumping when mixing with melted butter?

To prevent clumping, allow the melted butter to cool slightly before mixing it with the oats. This will help evenly coat the oats and create a crispy topping without any clumps.

Can I substitute any ingredient in this recipe?

While the ingredients listed work harmoniously to create the desired flavors and textures, you can customize the recipe to your liking. For example, you can swap pecans for a different type of nut or add dried fruits to the oat topping for extra sweetness and texture. Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples with Oats are a delightful dessert that embodies the essence of comfort and warmth. The tender apples filled with a sweet and crunchy oat topping, drizzled with maple syrup, and sprinkled with cinnamon, create a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds sing. This recipe offers a healthier twist on traditional apple desserts while still delivering that cozy, indulgent satisfaction we all crave.

Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight treat or a show-stopping finale for a special gathering, these Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples are sure to impress. The easy customization options and make-ahead convenience make them a versatile and reliable option for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to savor the magical aroma of Maple Cinnamon Baked Apples filling your kitchen, bringing joy and warmth to all who indulge in this scrumptious dessert.