Introduction

Baked apples are a comforting and easy dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of the fruit. Filled with a warm, spiced oat mixture, they make a perfect treat for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a cozy dessert.

The image shows a close-up of a halved apple on a white plate with a shiny crunchy granola mix stuffed into the hollow center where the core was removed. The apple has a smooth red and yellow skin with a pale yellow inner flesh. The granola mix on top is golden brown with visible oats and nut pieces, coated in a sticky glaze that slightly drips down the apple’s flesh. A silver spoon is placed beside the apple on the plate, and the setting rests on a soft, folded white striped cloth over a white marbled surface. In the blurred background, a green apple and a jar are faintly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 Tablespoons (43g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1/4 cup (50g) packed light or dark brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 cup (21g) old-fashioned whole rolled oats
4 large apples, rinsed and patted dry

Optional: 2 Tablespoons raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts
3/4 cup (180ml) warm water

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C).

Step 2: In a bowl, mash the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg together until well combined. Stir in the rolled oats and, if using, the raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts. Set this filling mixture aside.
Step 3: Core each apple carefully using a sharp paring knife and a spoon, or an apple corer. Cut around the core about halfway or three-quarters down into the apple, then scoop out the core and seeds with a spoon. Take your time to avoid breaking the apple.
Step 4: Place the cored apples upright in an 8- or 9-inch baking pan or pie dish. Fill each apple completely with the oat filling, packing it to the top.

Step 5: Pour the warm water into the baking pan around the apples. This helps keep the apples moist during baking and prevents them from drying out.
Step 6: Bake the apples for 40 to 45 minutes, or until they become slightly soft. For softer, mushier apples, bake for a longer time depending on your texture preference and the firmness of your apples.
Step 7: Remove the apples from the oven. If you like, spoon some of the pan juices over the apples to add moisture to the skin, although this step is optional.

Step 8: Serve the baked apples warm, with salted caramel, whipped cream, or ice cream for an extra special touch. Leftovers can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Tips & Variations

Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of sweetness and acidity.
For a nutty crunch, try adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling.

If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute oats with chopped nuts or gluten-free granola.
To enhance flavor, soak the raisins or dried cranberries in warm water or a splash of apple brandy before adding them to the filling.

Storage

Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. Adding a little extra sauce or fresh cream can help restore moisture after refrigeration.

How to Serve

Four baked red apples with wrinkled, glossy skins are shown closely. Each apple is hollowed out on top and filled with a textured mixture of oats, nuts, and cinnamon, giving a brown, crumbly, and slightly sticky look. The filling is heaped above the apple edges. The apples are placed in a white dish with black lines underneath, all set on a white marbled surface. The lighting is soft, highlighting the moist and warm feel of the baked apples. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What type of apples work best for baking?

Tart and firm apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn are ideal because they hold their shape well during baking and provide a balanced flavor.

Can I prepare baked apples ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the apples with filling and store them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. Just add the water before placing them in the oven.