Baked Stuffed Apples
Sweet baked apples filled with nuts and dried fruit, simmered in spiced syrup. Perfect for cozy desserts or special occasions, appealing to fruit and nut lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Core the apples and peel halfway down from the top.
- Place the apples in a baking dish and fill the centers with a mixture of nuts and dried fruit.
- In a small saucepan, combine water, sugar, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil while stirring, then simmer for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Pour the syrup over the apples and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes.
- Baste the apples with the syrup 3 or 4 times during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using dried cranberries or apricots instead of raisins or dates. If you prefer a less sweet option, reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup or use a sugar substitute. For added flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the filling. Ensure the apples are firm and tart for the best results. Check them during baking to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
These baked stuffed apples are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair wonderfully with Red Raspberry Tea for a cozy dessert experience. For a more savory touch, serve alongside roasted chestnuts or a potato medley for a unique meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked stuffed apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This helps keep them moist and delicious.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Stuffed Apples contains roughly 296 calories, with 4g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 various types of apples. Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well, providing a nice contrast to the sweetness of the filling. Just make sure they are firm enough to hold their shape while baking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, substitute the sugar with a vegan-friendly alternative, like maple syrup or coconut sugar. Ensure that the nuts used are raw and avoid any added oils for a healthier option.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the filling?
To adjust the sweetness, you can reduce the sugar in the filling mixture or use naturally sweet ingredients like ripe mashed bananas or applesauce. Experiment with the amount until it suits your taste, keeping in mind the natural sweetness of the apples.
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).