Caramel Baked Apples
Sweet baked apples infused with caramel, cinnamon, and orange juice, creating a warm, comforting dessert perfect for fall gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, combine flour and ground cinnamon.
- Core the apples and place them in a Reynolds oven cooking bag.
- Insert 3 vanilla caramel candies into each apple's core cavity.
- In a saucepan, heat orange juice and honey until warmed.
- Pour the orange juice mixture over the apples in the bag.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon-flour mixture over the apples.
- Seal the cooking bag and place it in a baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until apples are tender.
- Remove from oven, carefully cut open the bag, and serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using a mix of apples for a balance of sweetness and tartness. If you don't have vanilla caramel candies, regular caramels or even chocolate can be used as a substitute. To enhance the cinnamon flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg. Make sure to core the apples carefully to avoid breaking the skin, which helps retain the juices during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these caramel baked apples warm as a delightful dessert, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top. They also pair beautifully with a slice of warm pound cake or can be enjoyed alongside a cup of spiced chai for a cozy evening treat. For a twist, try drizzling some extra honey over the top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power in 30-second intervals until warmed through. These apples also make a delicious breakfast when paired with yogurt or oatmeal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caramel Baked Apples contains roughly 474 calories, with 1g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (129% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g 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 other types of apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other varieties like Granny Smith for added tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Just ensure they are firm enough to hold up during baking.
What can I use instead of orange juice?
If you're out of orange juice, apple juice or even a splash of lemon juice mixed with water can work well. This will still provide moisture and a hint of acidity to balance the sweetness.
How do I know when the apples are done baking?
The apples are done when they are tender and a fork can easily pierce through them. Keep an eye on them after about 35 minutes, as baking times may vary based on the size 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).