There’s a delightful warmth that envelops you as the sweet aroma of cinnamon-filled baked apples wafts through the kitchen. This simple yet elegant dessert is an unexpected joy, perfect for when you want to treat yourself without the guilt. I first created these Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples on a chilly autumn evening, seeking a comforting indulgence that wouldn’t compromise my healthy eating goals.
With their warm, tender flesh and a flavorful stuffing that combines the tangy sweetness of cranberries with the crunchy richness of walnuts, you’ll find these baked apples quickly become a go-to for satisfying your sweet tooth. At just 238 calories each, they make for a guilt-free treat any time of day! Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe beautifully merges simplicity and flavor, ensuring that you’ll impress family and friends alike with minimal effort. Let’s dive in and get those apples baking!
Why choose Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples?
Warm, Comforting Delight: The sweet aroma of cinnamon wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in warmth.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: At just 238 calories each, these treats satisfy your cravings without the extra calories.
Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a delectable dessert in no time!
Versatile Options: Swap out cranberries for your favorite dried fruit or add chocolate chips for an extra indulgent twist.
Impressive Presentation: These baked apples make a stunning dish that will wow your guests and family.
Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a special treat any day, you’ll find these baked apples are a delicious solution for your sweet tooth cravings.
Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples Ingredients
For the Apples
- Gala Apples – Sweet and firm, perfect for baking; substitute with Granny Smith for a tart flavor variation.
- Butter – Adds richness and flavor; can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Water – Helps create steam while baking; no alternate needed.
For the Filling
- Dried Cranberries – Provides tartness and chewiness; can be swapped with raisins or chopped dried figs for a different touch.
- Chopped Walnuts – Adds a crunchy texture and nuttiness; use pecans or almonds if desired.
- Light Brown Sugar – Introduces sweetness and moisture; consider coconut sugar as a lower-calorie alternative.
- Ground Cinnamon – Enhances flavor with warmth; try using nutmeg for a unique twist.
These Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples come together beautifully to create a healthy dessert that is as visually appealing as it is delicious!
How to Make Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples
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Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your apples bake evenly, becoming perfectly tender and caramelized.
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Prepare the apples by washing them thoroughly. Cut off the tops and carefully core them, leaving about a ½-inch border to hold the filling. For better stability, you can slice a thin layer off the bottom.
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Mix the diced apple cores with dried cranberries, brown sugar, chopped walnuts, and cinnamon in a bowl. This fragrant mixture will be the star of your delicious stuffing!
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Stuff each hollowed apple with the filling mixture, pressing gently to pack it in. Arrange the apples in a baking dish, ensuring they stand upright.
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Dot each apple with butter, spreading it on top of the filling. Don’t forget to add water to the bottom of the baking dish to create steam while baking.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are fork-tender and golden brown. You want them soft but not mushy—perfection!
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Serve the baked apples warm or cool; enjoy them plain or with a scoop of ice cream for a special treat!
Optional: Drizzle with honey or maple syrup before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples?
These delightful baked apples are a warm embrace of flavors, perfect for creating an inviting meal that feels like a hug from the inside out.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm apples, making every bite indulgent.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream enhances the sweetness of the baked apples, transforming them into an elegant dessert.
- Greek Yogurt: A scoop of Greek yogurt provides a tangy balance that complements the sweetness of the apples while adding a lovely creaminess.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzled over the top, caramel sauce enriches the baked apples’ flavors and creates a decadent finish everyone will love.
- Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai tea, with its spicy notes, pairs beautifully with the comforting flavors of the apples, enhancing the cozy vibe.
- Maple Glazed Pecans: You can sprinkle maple-glazed pecans for an extra crunch that harmonizes perfectly with the soft, baked apples and the walnut stuffing.
- Cinnamon Coffee: A warm cup of cinnamon coffee creates a cozy atmosphere and deepens the aromatic experience of your dessert.
These pairings celebrate the wholesome goodness of Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples, making your meal even more memorable.
Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples Variations
Feel free to explore and personalize these baked apples to suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Dried Fruit Swap: Replace cranberries with dried apricots or cherries for a different flavor burst.
- Nutty Twist: Try using pecans or almond slices instead of walnuts for a new texture and taste. These swaps not only change the flavor but can add a delightful crunch.
- Oat-Infused: Add rolled oats to the stuffing for extra heartiness and chew. This will create a wholesome filling that keeps you satisfied longer.
- Chocolate Bliss: Incorporate dark chocolate chips into the mix for a sweet and indulgent touch. Just imagine that melty chocolate blending with the warm fruit!
- Spice it Up: Experiment with ginger or allspice for an aromatic twist in the filling. This infuses the dish with a warm character perfect for cozy nights.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Drizzle a bit of maple syrup over the stuffed apples before baking for extra sweetness and a delightful caramelization effect.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter with coconut oil for a vegan-friendly dessert that still offers richness and flavor.
- Savory Variation: For a unique flavor profile, add a pinch of sea salt to your filling—this contrast can elevate the sweetness beautifully.
These adaptations will surely lead you to new delightful bites of joy with every warm apple!
Storage Tips for Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples
- Room Temperature: Enjoy freshly baked apples within 2 hours of baking for the best flavor. After that, refrigerate to maintain quality.
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
- Freezer: You can freeze baked apples for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: To enjoy leftover Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples, reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Expert Tips for Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples
- Choose the Right Apples: Use firm varieties like Gala or Honeycrisp to ensure they hold their shape while baking; avoid soft apples like McIntosh.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a fork into the apples; they should be tender but not mushy. Keep a close eye, as baking times may vary slightly.
- Add Extra Flavor: Experiment with spices; ginger or nutmeg can bring a new depth to the flavor for your Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples.
- Sweeten it Up: For a more indulgent treat, drizzle honey or maple syrup over the apples right before serving—just a touch will enhance their natural sweetness!
- Storage Tips: Leftover baked apples can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave for the best taste.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples are perfect for busy weeknights and can be prepped up to 24 hours in advance! To do this, prepare the apples by coring and stuffing them with the filling, then arrange them in a baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents browning. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply remove the plastic wrap, dot with butter, add water to the dish, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes. You’ll have a delicious, home-cooked dessert with minimal effort!
Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples work best for baking?
Absolutely! I recommend using firm varieties like Gala or Honeycrisp because they hold their shape well while baking, preventing them from turning mushy. Granny Smith is also an excellent choice if you prefer a tart flavor in your baked apples.
How should I store leftover baked apples?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and delicious. If you’re planning to keep them longer, simply freeze them!
Can I freeze Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Follow these steps: Wrap each baked apple in plastic wrap, ensuring it’s tightly sealed. Then place them inside a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
How can I tell when my baked apples are done?
You’ll want to check for doneness by inserting a fork; the apples should be fork-tender yet still hold their shape. Typically, they will take about 20-25 minutes in the oven at 425°F (220°C). Keep a close eye on them—if they become mushy, they may lose some of that delightful texture.
Are these baked apples suitable for those with nut allergies?
Good question! If you’re cooking for someone with nut allergies, it’s best to leave out the walnuts entirely. You can substitute them with sunflower seeds or simply double the amount of cranberries to keep that chewy texture intact.
What can I serve with baked apples?
These Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples can be enjoyed on their own, but for an extra special treat, consider serving them with a dollop of vanilla yogurt or a scoop of ice cream. Drizzling them with honey or maple syrup right before serving adds a lovely touch!
Cranberry and Walnut Baked Apples for Guilt-Free Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the apples by washing them thoroughly. Cut off the tops and carefully core them, leaving about a ½-inch border to hold the filling.
- Mix the diced apple cores with dried cranberries, brown sugar, chopped walnuts, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Stuff each hollowed apple with the filling mixture, pressing gently to pack it in.
- Dot each apple with butter and add water to the bottom of the baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the apples are fork-tender and golden brown.
- Serve the baked apples warm or cool, optionally drizzling with honey or maple syrup before serving.