Red Hot Apples
Sweet and spicy baked apples filled with red hots and sugar, creating a fiery treat that balances tartness and heat, perfect for dessert or a fun snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and core the apples.
- Place the apples in a microwave baking dish with holes up.
- Add water to the dish.
- Fill the apple holes with sugar, which will dissolve into the water, then fill with red hots.
- Save any unused red hots for later use.
- Bake the apples on High for 5 minutes.
- Turn the apples over and baste thoroughly.
- Add red hots to the holes in the apples.
- Bake for another 5 minutes, then turn and baste again.
- Repeat the baking and basting cycle until the apples are bright through and through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting the red hots with cinnamon candies for a spicier flavor. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to 1/4 cup. Ensure the apples are evenly spaced in the baking dish for consistent cooking. Also, basting frequently helps to deepen the flavor and color of the apples, making them even more appetizing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the red hot apples warm as a delightful dessert. They pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. You can also serve them alongside savory dishes like roasted pork or turkey, making them a versatile side for holiday meals. Consider browsing more American recipes for additional pairing ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover red hot apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. You can also bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Hot Apples contains roughly 31 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% 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 other types of apples for this recipe?
Yes, while cooking apples are ideal for their firmness, you can experiment with other varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Just ensure they are firm enough to hold their shape during cooking.
What if I don't have a microwave-safe baking dish?
If you lack a microwave-safe dish, you can use a glass bowl or a microwave-safe plate. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, checking for doneness frequently.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is inherently vegan, as it contains no animal products. Just ensure the red hots you use are vegan-friendly, as some brands may include gelatin or other animal-derived ingredients.
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).