When the chill of autumn sets in, there’s nothing quite like the scent of warm apples filling your kitchen. Picture this: sweet, tender apples stuffed to the brim with crunchy granola, dancing with cinnamon and a dash of nutmeg. no-bake fudge for dessert The aroma wafts through your home, inviting you to indulge in a cozy evening treat that feels like a hug in dessert form. These stuffed baked apples with granola are not just a delightful dessert; they embody comfort and nostalgia.
Now, let me take you back to my childhood. I remember huddling around the kitchen table as my grandmother prepared her special baked apples for our family gatherings. Each bite was a celebration, and every time I savor this recipe, it brings back those joyful moments. Whether it’s a crisp fall evening or a lazy Sunday afternoon, these scrumptious apples promise to deliver an explosion of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds).
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These stuffed baked apples with granola are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
- The combination of sweet and crunchy textures creates an irresistible flavor profile that is simply divine.
- Their golden-brown appearance makes them a visually stunning centerpiece on any table.
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as breakfast or dessert, fitting right into any meal plan!
Ingredients for Stuffed Baked Apples with Granola
For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with feta recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Apples: Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results; they hold up well during baking.
- Granola: Use your favorite granola mix; it adds crunch and flavor to the stuffing.
- Cinnamon: This warm spice enhances the sweetness of the apples and adds an aromatic touch.
- Brown Sugar: A natural sweetener that caramelizes beautifully when baked.
- Butter: A dab of butter in each apple keeps them moist and flavorful while baking.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Stuffed Baked Apples with Granola
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your apples bake evenly and turn out perfectly tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Core each apple carefully using an apple corer or a paring knife. Make sure to leave about half an inch at the bottom so that all those delicious juices don’t escape during baking.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine granola, cinnamon, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is well-coated and resembles a crumbly mixture that’s ready for stuffing.
Step 4: Stuff Those Apples
Generously fill each apple with your granola mixture. Don’t be shy! Pack it in there—those crunchy bits will toast up nicely while baking.
Step 5: Arrange in Baking Dish
Place your stuffed apples upright in a greased baking dish. Add about half an inch of water at the bottom of the dish; this helps steam the apples as they bake.
Step 6: Bake and Enjoy
Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until tender. The skins should start splitting slightly, revealing that heavenly filling. Once they’re done, let them cool for a few minutes before serving!
Transfer to plates and serve warm—perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for extra indulgence!
You Must Know
- Stuffed baked apples with granola are not just a dessert; they are a warm hug in food form.
- This recipe is easy to whip up, making it perfect for cozy evenings or impressing guests.
- A delightful blend of sweet and crunchy, they will steal the show on any table.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the best stuffed baked apples, start by preheating your oven while you prepare the filling. Core and slice the apples, mix the granola with spices, then stuff them inside. Bake until everything is tender and golden, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your pantry! Try using different nuts or dried fruits in your granola mix. A dash of cinnamon or maple syrup can elevate the sweetness. Customize these stuffed baked apples to match your taste buds!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed baked apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy that freshly-baked aroma all over again!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for better structure during baking.
- Add a splash of lemon juice to prevent browning when preparing your apples.
- Experiment with different granola flavors to create unique combinations that excite your taste buds.
I once brought stuffed baked apples to a family gathering, and they vanished faster than you can say “dessert”! My aunt even asked for the recipe, which made me feel like a culinary superstar for a moment.
FAQs :
What are Stuffed Baked Apples with Granola?
Stuffed baked apples with granola are a delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of baked apples with a crunchy granola filling. These treats typically feature cored apples filled with a mixture of oats, nuts, spices, and sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. healthy grilled veggie skewers The baking process enhances the flavors, making them a comforting and healthy dessert option.
How do I make the filling for Stuffed Baked Apples with Granola?
To create the filling for stuffed baked apples with granola, start by combining rolled oats, chopped nuts, cinnamon, brown sugar, and melted butter. For added flavor, consider incorporating dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. crumble with oats and fruits Mix these ingredients well until they form a crumbly texture, then pack them into the hollowed-out apples before baking. For more inspiration, check out this cinnamon pear walnut crumble recipe.
Can I use different types of apples for Stuffed Baked Apples with Granola?
Yes! You can use various apple varieties to make stuffed baked apples with granola. Popular choices include Granny Smith for their tartness, Honeycrisp for sweetness, and Fuji for their crisp texture. Choose apples that hold their shape during baking to ensure a perfect presentation and delightful taste.
Are Stuffed Baked Apples with Granola suitable for vegan diets?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt stuffed baked apples with granola to be vegan-friendly. Simply replace any animal-based ingredients such as butter or honey with plant-based alternatives like coconut oil or maple syrup. This way, everyone can enjoy this scrumptious dessert without compromising their dietary choices.
Conclusion for Stuffed Baked Apples with Granola :
Stuffed baked apples with granola offer a perfect blend of flavors and textures that make for an enjoyable dessert. With simple ingredients and easy preparation methods, this dish is both healthy and delicious. chocolate-dipped treats Feel free to customize the filling to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Enjoy these delightful treats warm from the oven for an irresistible finish to any meal!
Stuffed Baked Apples with Granola
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Enjoy the warmth of fall with these irresistible stuffed baked apples filled with crunchy granola and aromatic spices. Each bite delivers a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making this dessert a comforting treat and a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings. Perfect for cozy evenings, these apples are simple to make and versatile enough to serve as breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
- 4 firm apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup granola
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Core each apple, leaving half an inch at the bottom.
- In a bowl, mix granola, cinnamon, brown sugar, and melted butter until crumbly.
- Generously stuff each apple with the mixture.
- Place stuffed apples upright in a greased baking dish; add half an inch of water at the bottom.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender and skins begin to split.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed apple (150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Experiment with different nuts or dried fruits in your granola for unique flavors. A splash of lemon juice can help prevent browning while preparing the apples. For an indulgent treat, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
