Molasses Apple Baked Beans
A hearty, sweet and savory baked beans dish featuring apples, molasses, and tender beans, perfect for cozy family dinners or potlucks with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Heat 1/4 cup water or broth in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook, stirring, for 3 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Add water if needed during cooking.
- Add grated apples, cover, lower heat, and cook for 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked apple and onion mixture with tomato sauce, molasses, water or broth, dry mustard, and drained beans.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using apple cider instead of water or broth. You can substitute the Great Northern beans with navy beans for a creamier texture. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, adjust the molasses to taste. To enhance the dish, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg. This recipe is a great way to use up extra apples, especially after making Rosy Rhubarb Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Molasses Apple Baked Beans as a hearty side dish at your next barbecue or family gathering. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, serve alongside Beef Barbecue Sandwiches or with cornbread. Enjoy as a comforting dish on a chilly evening.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to prevent sticking. You can also microwave in a covered dish, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molasses Apple Baked Beans contains roughly 250 calories, with 3g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), potassium (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. 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 fresh apples instead of grated ones?
Yes, fresh apples can be used in place of grated ones. Just ensure they are finely chopped to blend well with the beans. You can also experiment with different apple varieties for varied sweetness and tartness.
What can I substitute for molasses?
If you don't have molasses, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup. However, keep in mind that this may change the flavor profile slightly, so adjust the amount to your taste preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve. This can enhance the flavors as they meld together overnight.
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).