Craving a warm, comforting dessert that’s also good for you? These Cinnamon Oat Baked Apples are a delightful answer, offering a sweet and satisfying treat perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy apple dessert ideas.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Apples: Firm, baking apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith work best.
- Rolled Oats: Quick oats can be used in a pinch, but rolled oats give a better texture.
- Maple Syrup: Honey or agave nectar are good alternatives.
- Cinnamon: Don’t skip this; it’s essential for flavor!
- Butter: Coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute works well for a dairy-free option.
Ingredients:
For the Apples:
- 4 medium-sized baking apples
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 200 calories (depending on apple size and exact ingredients)
- Tools Needed: Paring knife, spoon, baking dish, small bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Apples
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash and core your apples, leaving about a half-inch of flesh at the bottom. Brush the inside and outside of the cored apples with lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. Mix the Oat Filling
In a small bowl, combine the rolled oats, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, melted butter, optional nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and forms a crumbly mixture. This will be your delicious filling for a healthy apple dessert idea.
3. Stuff the Apples
Carefully spoon the oat mixture into the center of each cored apple, pressing it down gently. You want to fill them generously, creating a nice dome of the topping.
4. Bake to Perfection
Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish. You can add a tablespoon or two of water to the bottom of the dish to help steam the apples and keep them moist. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork and the topping is golden brown.
5. Serve Warm
Allow the baked apples to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them on their own or with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for an extra special treat. This comforting dish makes a wonderful healthy apple dessert.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a few chopped walnuts or pecans to the oat topping for extra crunch.
- Include a tablespoon of dried cranberries or raisins in the filling.
- Drizzle with a little extra maple syrup just before serving.
- For an even more comforting experience, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Cinnamon Oat Baked Apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Which types of apples are best for baking? Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, and Granny Smith hold their shape well during baking.
- Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the apples and filling a few hours in advance and bake them just before serving.
- Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? You can, but rolled oats provide a better, chewier texture for the topping.
- How do I prevent the apples from turning mushy? Don’t overbake them. Start checking for tenderness around the 30-minute mark.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? If you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, this recipe can be made gluten-free.
- Can I omit the butter? You can try replacing it with applesauce or an extra tablespoon of maple syrup, but the texture will be different.
