Oven Baked Apple Slices
Oven baked apple slices offer a warm, tender treat infused with cinnamon and lemon, perfect for cozy dessert or snack time. The caramelized edges and fragrant spices appeal to fruit lovers and those seeking a comforting, easy-to-make dish that highlights the natural sweetness of apples.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Quarter, core, and peel the apples.
- Cut the quarters into lengthwise thirds to make slices about 1/2 inch wide at the outside edge.
- Toss the apple slices in a bowl with the sugar, then with the lemon juice, and finally with the melted butter.
- Let sit for 3 to 4 minutes to render juices and absorb flavor.
- Taste and fold in more sugar if needed.
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Place the apple slices into a 6 x 9-inch baking dish and set in the middle level of the oven.
- Baste the apples every 8 to 10 minutes with accumulated juices.
- Cook until the slices are tender.
- If juices have not thickened, remove with a bulb baster and boil down in a small saucepan.
- Pour the thickened juices over the apples before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract to the apple mixture. If you want to reduce sugar, substitute with honey or maple syrup, adjusting the quantity to taste. Using a mix of apples, like Granny Smith and Golden Delicious, can enhance the dish's complexity. Ensure the apples are evenly coated with the sugar and lemon juice for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These oven-baked apple slices are delightful served warm over a scoop of vanilla ice cream or as a topping for pancakes or waffles. They also pair beautifully with Southern Grits Casserole for a comforting brunch. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a slice of Chocolate Praline Torte for dessert or as part of a sweet Vegie Bar.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked apple slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish covered with foil at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For a quick option, microwave the slices for 1-2 minutes, but note that they may lose some texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Baked Apple Slices contains roughly 278 calories, with 3g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 7g 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?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Golden Delicious are great choices, you can experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for different flavors and textures. Just keep in mind that the sweetness and tartness may vary, affecting the overall taste.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make a healthier version, reduce the amount of sugar or substitute it with a natural sweetener such as agave syrup or stevia. You could also add some oats or nuts to the apple mixture for added texture and nutrition, making it a more balanced treat.
Can I prepare the apples ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple slices a few hours in advance. Just toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, proceed with the recipe as directed for fresh and flavorful results.
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).