Craving a warm, comforting dessert that’s also good for you? You’ll love these Coconut Cardamom Baked Apples. This recipe offers a delightful twist on classic Healthy Baked Apples Ideas, bringing exotic flavors right to your kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Apples: Firm, sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work best. Granny Smith is great if you prefer more tartness.
- Shredded Coconut: Unsweetened is preferred to control sweetness.
- Cardamom: Ground cardamom is essential for the unique flavor.
- Maple Syrup: Use honey or agave nectar as an alternative.
- Coconut Oil: Unsalted butter or a neutral oil can be substituted.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala recommended)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup water
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total time: 45 minutes
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 kcal
- 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 the apples thoroughly. Carefully core each apple, leaving about half an inch at the bottom so the filling stays in. You can also lightly score the skin around the middle of each apple to prevent bursting.
2. Make the Filling
In a small bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, shredded coconut, maple syrup, ground cardamom, optional cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything until well combined. This is where the magic of these Healthy Baked Apples Ideas comes to life.
3. Fill and Arrange
Spoon the coconut cardamom mixture into the hollowed-out centers of each apple, pressing it down gently. Place the filled apples in a baking dish. Pour 1/4 cup of water into the bottom of the baking dish; this helps create steam and prevents the apples from drying out.
4. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. Baking time will vary depending on the size and type of your apples. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
5. Serve Warm
Carefully remove the baked apples from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your warm, aromatic Coconut Cardamom Baked Apples as a delicious and healthy treat.
Variation Ideas:
- Nutty Crunch: Add a tablespoon of chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra texture.
- Vanilla Boost: Stir 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the filling for a hint of vanilla.
- Ginger Zing: Include a pinch of ground ginger for a subtle, spicy warmth.
- Lemon Brightness: Add 1/2 teaspoon of lemon zest to the filling to brighten the flavors.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Coconut Cardamom 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 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. These Healthy Baked Apples Ideas are great for meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use different types of apples?
A: Yes, you can use any firm apple variety. Just adjust baking time as needed.
Q: Is unsweetened coconut necessary?
A: Unsweetened coconut allows you to control the sweetness. If using sweetened, you might want to reduce the maple syrup.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: You can prep the filling and core the apples ahead, then bake when ready. They are best served warm but are also tasty chilled.
Q: What if I don’t have cardamom?
A: Cardamom is key to the unique flavor of this recipe. If you omit it, the taste will be different but still pleasant with just cinnamon.
Q: How do I prevent the apples from getting mushy?
A: Use firm apples and check for tenderness with a fork. Remove them from the oven as soon as they are tender but not falling apart.
Q: Can I add oats to the filling?
A: Yes, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of rolled oats to the filling for a more substantial texture.