Cranberry Walnut Baked Apples offer a delightful and wholesome dessert or snack. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare these warm, tender apples, making them a perfect addition to your collection of healthy baked apples ideas.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Apples: Firm baking apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji work best.
- Cranberries: Use fresh or frozen cranberries. Dried cranberries can also be used, but reduce added sugar slightly.
- Walnuts: Pecans or almonds are great alternatives.
- Brown Sugar: Maple syrup or honey can be substituted for a slightly different flavor.
- Cinnamon: A touch of nutmeg or apple pie spice can also be used.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 4 medium baking apples (e.g., Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji)
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Spices:
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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 (depending on apple size and sugar content)
- Tools Needed: Apple corer (optional, but helpful), small mixing bowl, baking dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Apples
Carefully wash and core each apple, making a cavity for the filling but leaving the bottom intact. You can use an apple corer or a small spoon and paring knife.
2. Create the Filling
In a small bowl, combine the cranberries, chopped walnuts, brown sugar, melted butter, and ground cinnamon. Mix everything until well combined. This is a key step for your healthy baked apples ideas.
3. Fill the Apples
Divide the cranberry walnut mixture evenly among the cored apples. Gently press the filling into each apple cavity.
4. Bake the Apples
Place the filled apples in a baking dish. Pour 2 tablespoons of water into the bottom of the dish to help steam the apples and keep them moist. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Serve Warm
Carefully remove the baked apples from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these warm and comforting healthy baked apples.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a pinch of ground ginger for extra warmth.
- Top with a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup after baking.
- Include a sprinkle of rolled oats in the filling for added texture.
- Try different nuts like pecans or almonds.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Cranberry Walnut Baked Apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave them for 30-60 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Which type of apples are best for baking?
A: Firm, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith hold their shape well and offer a good balance of flavor.
Q: Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?
A: Yes, you can. If using dried cranberries, you might want to reduce the brown sugar slightly as dried cranberries are often sweeter.
Q: Do I need to peel the apples?
A: No, you don’t need to peel them. The skin adds fiber and helps the apple hold its shape during baking.
Q: How do I know when the apples are done baking?
A: The apples are done when they are tender when pierced with a fork, but still hold their shape.
Q: Can I prepare these ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the filling and core the apples a few hours in advance, then assemble and bake closer to serving time.
Q: Is this a good option for healthy baked apples ideas for breakfast?
A: Absolutely! These baked apples are a nutritious and satisfying option for breakfast, dessert, or a snack.