Stuffed Baked Apple Recipe

If you’re searching for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then you absolutely must try this Stuffed Baked Apple recipe. It’s a remarkable blend of sweet, spiced, and nutty flavors wrapped inside tender baked apples, creating a comforting dish that’s both simple and sophisticated. Whether you’re craving a cozy treat or want to impress friends with a homey dessert, this Stuffed Baked Apple will quickly become your go-to favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the short list fool you—each ingredient in this Stuffed Baked Apple recipe plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect harmony of textures and flavors. From the naturally sweet apples to the crunchy walnuts and warm spices, every element works together effortlessly.

• 2 medium apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best baking results and tart-sweet balance.
• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that melts into the filling.
• 2 tablespoons uncooked oatmeal: Provides a lovely chewy texture and helps bind the filling together.
• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts: Bring in a satisfying crunch and a touch of earthiness to the mix.
• 2 tablespoons raisins: Their natural sweetness bursts with juiciness inside the apple.
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon: Classic warmth that pairs perfectly with baked fruit.
• Pinch of grated nutmeg: Adds a subtle spicy complexity.
• Pinch of ground cloves: A little bit goes a long way, contributing depth and aroma.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or ¼ teaspoon table salt): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• ½ tablespoon vegan margarine (optional): Adds richness and helps the filling brown beautifully.
• 1 cup boiling water: Used to steam the apples gently while baking, keeping them tender but not mushy.

How to Make Stuffed Baked Apple

Step 1: Prepare Your Apples

First things first, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F to get it ready for baking. Then, remove the cores of your apples carefully using an apple corer for the cleanest results. If you don’t have one, a melon baller or a paring knife will do — just be extra cautious cutting to keep the bottom intact so the filling doesn’t leak out. This step sets the stage for a perfectly stuffed apple that holds its shape throughout the baking process.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, uncooked oatmeal, chopped walnuts, raisins, cinnamon, nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt. This blend of ingredients is where all the magic happens, delivering a mix of texture, sweetness, and spice that transforms simple apples into a gourmet treat. Stir it thoroughly to ensure every bite is balanced.

Step 3: Stuff the Apples

Now comes the fun part—pack that delicious filling into the hollowed-out apples. Fill each cavity tightly with the mixture so every forkful has a bit of everything. If you have leftover filling, don’t fret—you can either stuff another apple or save it for another dessert adventure. To finish, top each apple with half a tablespoon of vegan margarine, which adds a lovely buttery richness as it melts.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the stuffed apples upright in a baking dish—an 8×8 square Pyrex works wonderfully. Pour one cup of boiling water into the dish to create steam, which helps the apples cook evenly and stay moist. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes to allow the tops to brown and the flavors to concentrate. Once done, let the apples cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving so the filling can set slightly and the flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve Stuffed Baked Apple

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup can elevate your Stuffed Baked Apple to dessert-table stardom. For an extra touch of indulgence, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream that melts into the warm filling, creating a dreamy contrast of temperatures and textures.

Side Dishes

This delightful Stuffed Baked Apple shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a cup of spiced chai tea or a cozy mug of hot apple cider. If you want something heartier, a side of toasted whole-grain bread or a handful of fresh berries can balance the sweetness and add some freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling fancy? Serve your stuffed apples atop a plate lined with a cascade of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of crushed walnuts for that extra wow factor. You can also slice the baked apples into wedges and serve with a dusting of cinnamon sugar, turning this classic comfort dessert into a shareable treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftover Stuffed Baked Apple, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will deepen, but keep in mind the texture of the apples might soften further after chilling.

Freezing

Freezing stuffed baked apples is possible but not ideal since the texture can change upon thawing. If you do freeze them, wrap each apple tightly with plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To warm up your leftover stuffed apples, pop them in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 10 to 15 minutes until heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible—it tends to make the apples mushy and less enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith work great for balancing sweetness, sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala will create a naturally sweeter dish. Just aim for firm apples that hold their shape when baked.

Is the vegan margarine necessary?

It’s optional but highly recommended if you want a richer, butter-like flavor and a nicely browned topping. If you prefer, you can substitute with coconut oil or leave it out entirely for a lighter dish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap the oatmeal for certified gluten-free oats, and ensure your other ingredients don’t contain any hidden gluten. This will keep your Stuffed Baked Apple delicious and safe for gluten-sensitive folks.

How do I prevent the apples from collapsing during baking?

Be sure to hollow out the apples carefully without cutting through the bottom. Using a sturdy baking dish with boiling water to steam the apples gently helps maintain their shape while making them tender.

Can I add other nuts or dried fruits?

Feel free! Pecans, almonds, or dried cranberries make excellent swaps or additions to customize the flavor and texture of your stuffing. Just keep the balance of ingredients similar to maintain the perfect filling consistency.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Stuffed Baked Apple recipe a try—it’s one of those simple yet stunning desserts that comfort the soul and impress at the same time. With its warm spices, sweet filling, and tender apples, it’s a cozy treat you’ll find yourself craving again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and make some magic happen in your kitchen today!

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