Description

A simple, cozy fall dessert featuring firm apples baked with a sweet filling of brown sugar, cinnamon, butter, and pure maple syrup. This recipe is easy to make, pantry-friendly, and delivers a comforting, gourmet taste.

Ingredients

Scale

4 large firm apples (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Pink Lady recommended)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
½ cup brown sugar (light or dark), packed
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped raisins or cranberries
Optional: 2 tablespoons rolled oats

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash and dry the apples.
Using a sharp paring knife, cut a cone-shaped lid out of the top of each apple to create a cup.
Scoop out the seeds and core from the center of each apple to create a hollow space about ¾ inch wide and 1 inch deep, being careful not to poke a hole in the bottom.
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt until combined like wet sand. Fold in optional nuts or dried fruit if using.
Place the cored apples snugly in a 9×9 inch baking dish or small casserole dish.
Spoon the filling mixture into the center of each apple, packing it in gently. Drizzle any leftover mixture over the tops.
Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the side of the apple goes in easily and the tops are golden brown.
If the tops brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes to allow syrup to thicken before serving.

Notes

Choose firm apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Pink Lady to prevent them from turning to mush. Avoid Red Delicious or Granny Smith for this specific sweet recipe. Ensure butter is softened for easy mixing. For make-ahead, core and stuff apples up to 4 hours in advance and refrigerate; add 5-10 minutes to baking time if baking from cold. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 baked apple
Calories: 220
Sugar: 32
Sodium: 10
Fat: 8
Saturated Fat: 5
Carbohydrates: 38
Fiber: 4
Protein: 1

Keywords: baked apples, maple cinnamon apples, fall dessert, easy dessert, cozy fall recipes, gluten-free dessert, vegan dessert option