Spiced Baked Apples
Warm, spiced baked apples filled with raisins and walnuts offer a comforting dessert with rich cinnamon and nutmeg flavors, perfect for cozy gatherings or family treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the raisins and chopped walnuts; set aside.
- In a saucepan, bring brown sugar, water, margarine, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg to a boil.
- Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Core the apples and place them in an ungreased 2-quart baking dish.
- Fill the cored apples with the raisin and walnut mixture.
- Pour the sugar mixture over and around the apples.
- Bake, uncovered, at 350°F for 30 to 35 minutes or until the apples are tender.
- Let stand 15 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a delightful twist, try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the sugar mixture for extra flavor. If you're out of walnuts, pecans or almonds can be great substitutes. You can also use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness. Ensure the apples are firm to hold their shape during baking, and consider using a mix of sweet and tart apples for depth.
Serving Suggestions
These spiced baked apples are perfect as a dessert on their own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat. They also pair beautifully with the flavors of the Broccoli 'N' Cauliflower Salad for a balanced meal. Consider drizzling with caramel sauce or serving alongside a slice of spiced cake for added warmth.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the apples in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to retain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spiced Baked Apples contains roughly 559 calories, with 6g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (206% of the Daily Value), calcium (82% of the Daily Value), and iron (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 58g 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 different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness, you can mix them with sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for a more complex flavor. Just ensure they are firm apples to maintain their shape while baking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan by substituting margarine with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Additionally, ensure that your brown sugar is vegan, as some brands use bone char in the processing.
How do I know when the apples are done baking?
The apples are done when they are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork but still hold their shape. Keep an eye on them while baking, as cooking times may vary slightly based on the size and type of apples used.
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).