Cinnamon-Crusted Baked Apples
Sweet baked apples with a cinnamon crust offer a warm, comforting dessert perfect for fall gatherings or cozy family dinners, highlighting cinnamon and nutmeg flavors.
Ingredients
- Butter-flavored cooking spray ⓘ
- 1/3 cup water ⓘ
- 5 medium cooking apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/2-inch wedges ⓘ
- 1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar ⓘ
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons reduced-calorie stick margarine, cut into pieces
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Coat an 11 x 7 inch baking dish with cooking spray and pour water into the dish.
- Arrange peeled, cored, and sliced apples in the prepared dish.
- Lightly coat the apples with cooking spray.
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon mixture over the apples.
- Dot with pieces of reduced-calorie stick margarine.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until apples are tender and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, consider using a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup or a sugar alternative. You can also add raisins or chopped nuts for extra texture. For an even richer taste, try adding a pinch of salt to the cinnamon mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cinnamon-crusted baked apples warm, drizzled with a little honey or topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. They also pair beautifully with oatmeal pancakes for a satisfying breakfast. For a delightful dessert, consider serving alongside a sweet and creamy dip for fruit.
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 in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to maintain crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cinnamon-Crusted Baked Apples contains roughly 294 calories, with 3g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (18% of the Daily Value). 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 different types of apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a variety of apples for different flavor profiles. Tart apples like Granny Smith work well, while sweeter options like Fuji or Honeycrisp can add a nice contrast. Mixing different types can enhance the overall taste and texture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend you use is designed for baking to achieve the best results. This will allow you to enjoy the dish without compromising on flavor.
What can I serve with baked apples?
Baked apples pair wonderfully with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream for dessert. For a breakfast twist, serve alongside oatmeal pancakes or with a dollop of yogurt. They also make a delightful addition to a cheese platter when combined with soft cheeses.
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).