Low Calorie Microwave Baked Apples
Delightful low-calorie baked apples with cinnamon, infused with diet black cherry soda, perfect for a quick, healthy dessert that satisfies sweet cravings without guilt.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the cored Granny Smith apples in a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the apples with cinnamon.
- Pour the diet black cherry soda over the apples.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap.
- Microwave on High for 5 minutes.
- Let stand for 2 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a drizzle of honey over the apples before microwaving. If you don't have diet black cherry soda, any diet soda could work well, or you could substitute with unsweetened apple juice for a different taste. Make sure to core the apples deeply enough to allow the soda to infuse the fruit.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked apples as a warm dessert, perhaps topped with a dollop of yogurt or a scoop of low-calorie ice cream. They also pair beautifully with Glazed Pork Loin With Garlic Potatoes for a wholesome meal. For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until warmed through. You can also enjoy them cold or at room temperature as a refreshing snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low Calorie Microwave Baked Apples contains roughly 453 calories, with 4g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is a good source of calcium (14% of the Daily Value).
* % 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, while Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, you can use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji, which will yield a sweeter result. Just adjust the amount of cinnamon or any added sweeteners accordingly to balance the flavors.
How do I know when the apples are done cooking?
The apples are done when they are tender but not mushy. After microwaving, you can check by poking them with a fork; they should give easily. Keep in mind that microwave wattage may vary, so you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cored apples and sprinkle them with cinnamon in advance. Cover them tightly and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply add the soda and microwave as directed for a quick and easy dessert.
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).