Craving a comforting treat? These Baked Apples with Granola Filling are a delightful and easy apple dessert recipe. You’ll love how simple they are to prepare and how warmly they fill your kitchen with a sweet aroma.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Apples: Use firm baking apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith.
- Granola: Any plain or subtly flavored granola works great.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred; use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar will do. Maple syrup or honey can be used as alternatives.
- Cinnamon: Essential for that classic apple pie flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Apples:
- 4 medium baking apples
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Granola Filling:
- ½ cup granola
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
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 kcal (varies by apple size and granola)
- Tools Needed: Paring knife, spoon, baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Apples
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash the apples thoroughly. Using a paring knife or apple corer, carefully remove the core from each apple, leaving about ½ inch at the bottom so the filling doesn’t leak out. Brush the inside of each apple with lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. Make the Granola Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the granola, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix well until everything is evenly coated. This will be the delicious heart of your apple dessert.
3. Stuff the Apples
Spoon the granola filling generously into the hollowed-out center of each apple. Pack it down gently. You want a good amount of that sweet, crunchy mixture in every bite.
4. Bake the Apples
Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish. You can add about ¼ cup of water to the bottom of the dish to help steam the apples and keep them moist. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork and the granola topping is lightly golden.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the baked apples from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving. These warm, tender apple dessert treats are perfect on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a handful of chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts) to the granola filling for extra crunch.
- Mix in dried cranberries or chopped dates for chewy sweetness.
- Drizzle with a little maple syrup or honey after baking for extra shine and flavor.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of allspice or ginger for a different spice profile.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. The granola may lose some crunch but will still be delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What kind of apples are best for baking?
Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, Granny Smith, or Rome are excellent choices because they hold their shape well during baking.
Can you make this recipe ahead of time?
You can assemble the apples and filling a few hours in advance, then bake when ready. Store them covered in the refrigerator until baking.
How do you prevent the apples from turning brown after coring?
Brushing the inside of the cored apples with lemon juice helps to prevent oxidation and browning.
Can you make this recipe without butter?
Yes, you can substitute melted coconut oil for the butter to make it dairy-free.
What can you serve with baked apples?
Baked apples are wonderful with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of yogurt, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Is this a healthy apple dessert recipe?
Baked apples with granola are a healthier alternative to many other apple dessert recipes, especially if you choose a low-sugar granola.