Baked Cardamom Applesauce
Warm baked apples infused with aromatic cardamom and cinnamon, topped with a hint of maple, perfect for cozy mornings or comforting desserts for any apple lover.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer sliced tart apples in an ungreased baking dish.
- Combine apple juice or cider, maple extract or syrup, ground cardamom, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture over the apples in the baking dish.
- Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour.
- Remove from oven and mash the warm apples.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter applesauce, feel free to increase the maple syrup or use sweeter apple varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp. If you prefer a spicier flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger. To save time, you can use pre-sliced apples or even store-bought applesauce as a base and enhance it with cardamom and cinnamon for depth.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Cardamom Applesauce is delicious served warm over pancakes or waffles, and it pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. For a breakfast option, try it alongside oatmeal or yogurt. It can also be used as a topping for Poverty Cake to add a fruity twist.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the baked applesauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Cardamom Applesauce contains roughly 34 calories, with 0g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% 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 frozen apples for this recipe?
While fresh apples are ideal for texture and flavor, you can use frozen apples if that’s what you have. Just ensure they are completely thawed and drained of excess moisture to prevent a watery sauce.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the applesauce?
You can adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of maple syrup or extract. Taste the mixture before baking and add more if desired. Remember, the natural sweetness of the apples will also play a role in the final flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the baked applesauce a day in advance. Just reheat it gently before serving. This also allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste.
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).