Cranberry Glazed Baked Apples
Sweet baked apples glazed with a tart cranberry sauce, offering a comforting dessert with vibrant flavors, perfect for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the cored apples in a baking dish.
- Combine 1 1/4 cups sugar, cranberry juice cocktail, and water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Pour the cranberry glaze over the apples.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 50 minutes or until the apples are tender.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with remaining sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter glaze, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. If you don't have cranberry juice cocktail, pomegranate juice can work as a substitute for a similar flavor. When cored, apples can be stuffed with nuts or raisins for added texture and flavor. Make sure to choose firm baking apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cranberry glazed baked apples warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience. These apples also make for a lovely breakfast side dish. For a full meal, pair them with savory dishes like roasted pork or turkey, or enjoy them alongside a light salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the apples in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Glazed Baked Apples contains roughly 101 calories, with 1g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% 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 a different type of juice for the glaze?
Yes, you can substitute cranberry juice cocktail with apple juice, orange juice, or even a mix of both for a different flavor profile. Each will give the baked apples a unique taste, while still complementing the natural sweetness of the fruit.
What kind of apples are best for baking?
Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are ideal for baking, as they hold their shape and texture well. Avoid softer varieties like Red Delicious, which may become mushy during the baking process.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the glaze and core the apples a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply pour the glaze over the apples and bake as directed. This can save time on busy days.
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).