Brown Sugar Baked Apples
Sweet and warming baked apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter, perfect for a cozy dessert or comforting treat for family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Core apples, being sure not to cut all the way through.
- Cut a thin slice from the top of each apple.
- Place apples on microwave-safe pie plate.
- Cover with waxed paper and microwave on High for 3 to 4 minutes, rotating dish 1/4 turn once.
- Meanwhile, mix brown sugar, water, flour, and cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth.
- Spoon the mixture evenly over the apples and dot with butter.
- Cover and microwave on High for 2 to 3 minutes until sauce is bubbly and apples are barely tender.
- Let stand for 3 minutes until tender.
- Spoon sauce from pie plate over apples.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. If McIntosh apples aren't available, you can substitute with Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a slightly different taste. To enhance the texture, you could also sprinkle some chopped nuts over the apples before microwaving. This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these brown sugar baked apples as a delightful dessert on their own or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic touch. They also make a great topping for pancakes or waffles. For a more festive twist, try serving them alongside slices of Orange Chiffon Cake for a lovely brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until warmed through. You can also enjoy them cold or at room temperature, making them a versatile dessert option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brown Sugar Baked Apples contains roughly 459 calories, with 10g protein, 92g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (27% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g 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 apple types like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Each variety will bring its unique flavor and texture to the dish, so feel free to experiment!
How do I know when the apples are done cooking?
The apples are done when they are barely tender and the sauce is bubbly. You can check their doneness by gently piercing them with a fork. If they are soft but not mushy, they're perfect!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apples and the brown sugar mixture in advance. Store the apples unbaked in the fridge, and when you're ready to serve, simply follow the cooking instructions. This makes it an easy dessert option for gatherings!
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).