Transform humble apples into a delightful and healthy treat with these Maple Pecan Stuffed Baked Apples. This recipe offers a naturally sweet dessert or a wholesome snack that’s simple to prepare and truly satisfying. You’ll love how easy it is to make a healthy baked apple idea everyone will enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Apples: Firm baking apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji work best.
- Pecans: Walnuts or almonds are good substitutes.
- Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor; agave nectar can be used as an alternative.
- Oats: Rolled oats or quick oats.
- Cinnamon: A warming spice essential for this healthy baked apple idea.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium baking apples
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ¼ cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup, plus more for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or coconut oil, melted (optional, for richer filling)
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup hot 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 250-300 (varies by apple size and exact ingredients)
- Tools Needed: Apple corer (optional), small bowl, baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Apples
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash your apples thoroughly and carefully remove the core from each, leaving about ½ inch at the bottom intact so the filling stays in place. You can use an apple corer or a small knife and spoon for this.
2. Mix the Filling
In a small bowl, combine the chopped pecans, rolled oats, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, optional nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. If using, stir in the melted butter or coconut oil to create a richer filling. This mixture will become the delicious heart of your healthy baked apples.
3. Stuff the Apples
Evenly divide the pecan and oat mixture among the cored apples. Gently press the filling into the cavities. Don’t worry if it mounds a little on top; it will settle as it bakes.
4. Arrange for Baking
Place the stuffed apples in a small baking dish. Pour the hot water into the bottom of the dish around the apples. This helps steam the apples, ensuring they become tender and juicy.
5. Bake Until Tender
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. The exact baking time will depend on the size and variety of your apples. Your healthy baked apple idea is almost ready!
6. Serve Warm
Carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let the apples cool slightly before serving. You can drizzle them with a little extra maple syrup for added sweetness.
Variation Ideas:
- Extra Crunch: Top with a sprinkle of granola before baking.
- Creamy Addition: Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla frozen dessert.
- Spiced Up: Add a tiny pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the filling for a different flavor profile.
- Nut-Free: Omit the pecans and increase the oats slightly, or use sunflower seeds.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Maple Pecan Stuffed 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.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What kind of apples are best for baking?
A: Firm, slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith hold their shape well and offer great flavor when baked.
Q: Can I prepare these ahead of time?
A: You can core and stuff the apples up to a day in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for the best results.
Q: Is this recipe good for a healthy dessert?
A: Absolutely! These Maple Pecan Stuffed Baked Apples are a fantastic healthy baked apple idea, offering natural sweetness and fiber without excessive added sugars.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes, ensure you use coconut oil instead of butter in the filling. This recipe is naturally dairy-free otherwise.
Q: Why do I add water to the baking dish?
A: The water creates steam in the oven, which helps the apples cook evenly and become very tender without drying out.
Q: How do I know when the apples are done?
A: The apples are done when they are tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork, but not mushy. The filling should also be slightly caramelized.