Baked Cinnamon Apples with Granola offers a warm, comforting treat perfect for any time of day. This healthy apple recipe is incredibly easy to make, delivering delicious flavor with minimal effort. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare this wholesome dessert or breakfast option.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Apples: Use firm apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala. Softer apples will become too mushy.
- Granola: Choose your favorite plain or cinnamon-flavored granola. Nut-free granola works great if you have allergies.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or honey. Adjust to your preference.
- Butter: Unsalted butter or a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil.
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples (Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala), cored and sliced into 1/2-inch rings
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup granola
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 (varies based on granola and apple size)
- Tools Needed: Baking dish, mixing bowl, whisk, measuring spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Apples
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Core and slice your apples into uniform 1/2-inch rings. This ensures even cooking for your healthy apple recipe.
2. Mix the Apple Coating
In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This creates a flavorful glaze for your apples.
3. Coat the Apples
Add the sliced apples to the bowl and toss gently until they are evenly coated with the cinnamon mixture. Make sure every apple slice gets some of that delicious seasoning.
4. Arrange and Bake
Spread the coated apple slices in a single layer in a baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes, allowing the apples to soften and caramelize slightly.
5. Add Granola and Finish Baking
Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the granola evenly over the apples. Return to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the granola is lightly toasted and the apples are tender. Your healthy apple recipe is almost ready!
Variation Ideas
- Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts with the granola for extra crunch.
- Stir in a tablespoon of dried cranberries or raisins with the apples before baking.
- Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent touch.
- Experiment with different apple varieties to find your favorite flavor and texture combination.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Baked Cinnamon Apples with Granola in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them gently in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. The granola might lose some crispness upon reheating, but the flavors will remain delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I peel the apples?
Yes, you can peel the apples before slicing if you prefer a smoother texture, but the skin adds fiber and nutrients.
What kind of apples are best for baking?
Firm, sweet-tart apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith work best as they hold their shape and flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can slice the apples and mix the coating a few hours in advance, but it’s best to bake just before serving for optimal texture.
Is this a healthy apple recipe for breakfast?
Absolutely! It’s a nutritious and filling option, especially when paired with yogurt or cottage cheese.
How can I make this dairy-free?
Simply substitute the butter with an equal amount of melted coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Can I use rolled oats instead of granola?
While you can, rolled oats won’t provide the same crunch or flavor profile as granola. If using oats, consider toasting them lightly first.
