Sugar Crusted Apples
Sweet and tender baked apples with a sugary crust and warm cinnamon flavor, complemented by orange juice and whipped cream. This delightful dessert is perfect for cozy gatherings or special occasions, offering a comforting balance of fruitiness and sweetness in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and core the apples.
- Combine flour, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Cut margarine into the flour mixture using two knives or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse cornmeal.
- Brush the apples with beaten egg.
- Roll the brushed apples in the flour mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Place the coated apples in a greased baking dish.
- Fill the cavities of the apples with any remaining flour mixture.
- Pour orange juice into the bottom of the dish around the apples.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour or until the apples are tender.
- Serve warm with pan juices and whipped cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose firm cooking apples like Granny Smith or Jonathan. If you want to reduce sugar, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also substitute the margarine with butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer a spicier note, try adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. This dish pairs beautifully with Strawberry Angel Food Dessert for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these apples warm, drizzled with the pan juices for added flavor. A dollop of whipped cream on top enhances their sweetness and makes for a comforting dessert. Pair them with vanilla ice cream or serve alongside a slice of Light Moist Fruitcake for a delightful contrast. They also go well with a scoop of yogurt for a lighter option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sugar crusted apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Be sure to cover them with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave them, but they may lose some texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sugar Crusted Apples contains roughly 709 calories, with 11g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), iron (20% of the Daily Value), and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C.
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?
Yes, while cooking apples are recommended, you can experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter flavor. Just be aware that the baking time may vary slightly based on the apple type and ripeness.
What should I do if I don't have orange juice?
If you don’t have orange juice, you can substitute it with apple juice or another citrus juice like lemon or grapefruit. This will still provide a nice acidity and flavor balance. If using lemon juice, consider adding a bit more sugar to counteract the tartness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the apples and coat them the day before. Store them in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and pour the orange juice before baking as directed.
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).