Baked Apples Recipe

Apples: The main ingredient, providing natural sweetness and a tender texture when baked.

Brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the filling.

Cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the sweetness of the apples and sugar.

Raisins: Chewy dried grapes that add a burst of sweetness and texture.

Chopped nuts: Optional, but they add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Water: Helps to steam the apples, making them tender and juicy.

When preparing cored apples, make sure to use a small paring knife or an apple corer to remove the core without cutting through the bottom of the apple. This helps to keep the stuffing mixture inside the apple during baking. Additionally, if you want a richer flavor, consider using apple cider instead of water in the baking dish. This will infuse the apples with a deeper, more complex taste.

• cored apples - Substitute with pears: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness when baked, making them a good alternative.

• brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and adds a unique flavor profile.

• cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm, spicy flavor that complements baked fruits well.

• raisins - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries provide a tartness that balances the sweetness of the dish.

• chopped nuts - Substitute with granola: Granola adds a crunchy texture and can include a mix of nuts and oats.

• water - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice enhances the apple flavor and adds a bit more sweetness.

• Allow the baked apples to cool completely at room temperature before storing.
• Transfer the baked apples to an airtight container. If you have multiple apples, layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The baked apples will keep well for up to 4 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the baked apples. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the baked apples to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, thaw the baked apples in the refrigerator overnight. Warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave the baked apples on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baked apples in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps retain the apples' moisture and texture.

• For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the baked apples in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 320°F (160°C). Place the baked apples in the basket and heat for about 5-7 minutes. This method can give the apples a slightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender.

• On the stovetop, place the baked apples in a saucepan with a splash of water or apple juice. Cover and heat on low for 5-10 minutes, occasionally stirring to ensure even heating. This method can enhance the apples' flavor with the added liquid.

• Oven: Used to bake the apples at the specified temperature of 375°F (190°C).

• Apple corer: Essential for removing the core from the apples, creating a cavity for the filling.

• Baking dish: Holds the apples and water while they bake, ensuring even cooking.

• Small bowl: Used to mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, raisins, and nuts.

• Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring the brown sugar, raisins, nuts, and water.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the precise amount of cinnamon.

• Spoon: Helps in stuffing the apples with the sugar mixture.

• Knife: Useful for chopping nuts if you choose to include them.

Prepare the filling: Mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, raisins, and nuts in advance and store in an airtight container.

Core the apples: Use an apple corer to quickly and uniformly core the apples.

Preheat the oven: Start preheating your oven while you prepare the ingredients to save time.

Use a baking dish: Choose a baking dish that fits all the apples snugly to ensure even cooking.

Batch preparation: Double the recipe and bake extra apples to enjoy later in the week.