Baked Apples And Sauce
Sweet baked apples with a rich caramel sauce, combining brown and white sugars, molasses, and vanilla. Perfect for cozy desserts and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bake apples (partially peeled and cored) until softened, about 30 minutes.
- Optional: fill the centers of apples with raisins before baking.
- In a saucepan, boil white sugar, brown sugar, flour, salt, molasses, water, butter, and vanilla until slightly thickened.
- Serve the sauce over the baked apples.
Tips & Substitutions
Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for baking, as they hold their shape better. If you prefer a spicier flavor, consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling. For a healthier twist, substitute some or all of the sugars with honey or maple syrup. If you have leftover sauce, it can also be drizzled over pancakes or waffles, enhancing breakfast options.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked apples warm, drizzled with the sauce, and consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. This dish pairs beautifully with Golden Peach Pie for a comforting dessert spread. For a balanced meal, serve with roasted nuts or a light salad to complement the sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the baked apples in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power until warm, about 1-2 minutes. The sauce can also be reheated on the stove over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Apples And Sauce contains roughly 501 calories, with 0g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of potassium (12% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 509mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a variety of apples depending on your taste preference. Tart apples like Granny Smith will provide a nice balance to the sweetness of the sauce, while sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala will enhance the overall flavor.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples is optional. Leaving the skin on can add texture and nutrients, but if you prefer a softer bite, peeling is recommended. Either way, make sure to core them to allow for even cooking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the apples in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just warm them in the oven before serving, and reheat the sauce separately. This makes it perfect for entertaining or busy weeknights.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).