Granola Baked Apples
Sweet baked apples filled with crunchy granola and cinnamon, offering a comforting dessert or breakfast option perfect for cozy mornings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Core the apples and cut out the center to leave a 1/2-inch shell.
- Chop 1/2 cup of apple from the center and reserve.
- Cut a strip of peel 1/2-inch wide around the top of each apple.
- In a medium bowl, mix granola, the reserved chopped apple, and brown sugar.
- Fill each apple with the granola mixture.
- Place the filled apples in a shallow baking dish.
- Add 1/4-inch water to the dish.
- Cover and bake in a 350°F oven for 45 minutes, or until apples are tender.
- Serve with sour cream if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
When selecting apples, choose a mix of sweet and tart varieties for depth of flavor. If granola isn't available, you can substitute with rolled oats mixed with nuts and honey for a similar crunch. For a vegan version, consider using maple syrup instead of brown sugar. Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sugar based on the tartness of the apples.
Serving Suggestions
These granola baked apples make a delightful dessert on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. For a brunch option, serve them alongside yogurt or oatmeal. They can also be a sweet addition to a breakfast spread, complementing dishes like Simmered Wieners or a fresh fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and warm in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. If they seem dry, add a splash of water to the dish before reheating to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granola Baked Apples contains roughly 1122 calories, with 5g protein, 265g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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 a variety of apples such as Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp. Each type will bring its own flavor profile and sweetness level, so choose based on your preference for tart or sweet apples.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make granola baked apples gluten-free, ensure that the granola you use is certified gluten-free. Alternatively, you can make your own granola using gluten-free oats, nuts, seeds, and sweeteners to control the ingredients.
What can I serve with baked apples?
Baked apples are versatile; you can serve them with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a scoop of yogurt for a healthier option. They also complement savory dishes, making them a perfect side to rich meats or a sweet ending to a meal.
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).