Baked Apples with Cranberry Filling

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, autumn brings with it a bounty of flavors that are perfect for indulging in warm, comforting desserts. One such treat that embodies the spirit of the season is baked apples with cranberry filling. This recipe combines the sweetness of baked apples with the tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful dessert that is not only pleasing to the palate but also visually appealing.

Ingredients

Before diving into the preparation, let’s gather the ingredients needed for this mouth-watering recipe.

For the Baked Apples:

• 6 medium-sized apples (choose your favorite variety such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/4 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
• Pinch of salt

For the Cranberry Filling:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup sugar (adjust according to your preference)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 teaspoons of water)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Filling

1. Cook the Cranberries: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.

2. Thicken the Filling: After the cranberries have cooked down, add the cornstarch slurry to the pan. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the filling thickens further. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

1. Preheat the Oven: While the cranberry filling is cooling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Core the Apples: Using a corer or a spoon, carefully remove the core of each apple, creating a hollow center for the filling. Ensure you leave the bottom intact to hold the filling.

3. Make the Filling Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, rolled oats, chopped nuts, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.

4. Stuff the Apples: Spoon the oatmeal mixture into the hollowed apples, packing it down gently. Then, pour the cranberry filling on top of the oatmeal mixture, allowing it to overflow slightly.

Step 3: Bake the Apples

1. Arrange in a Baking Dish: Place the stuffed apples upright in a baking dish. You may add a little water to the bottom of the dish to create steam, helping the apples bake evenly.

2. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Cool Slightly: Once baked, remove the apples from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will help the filling to set slightly.

2. Plate and Garnish: Serve the baked apples warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. Drizzle any remaining cranberry sauce over the top for added flavor and visual appeal.

3. Enjoy: Gather around the table with family and friends, and enjoy this delightful autumn dessert. The combination of warm, spiced apples and tart cranberries will surely bring comfort and joy.

Variations and Pairings

While the classic version of baked apples with cranberry filling is delicious on its own, there are countless variations you can explore to customize this dessert further. Here are a few creative ideas to inspire your culinary adventures:

Alternative Fillings

1. Nutty Granola: Instead of the oatmeal mixture, try using your favorite granola for a crunchy texture. This adds a delightful contrast to the soft baked apples.

2. Fruit Compote: Swap the cranberry filling for other fruit compotes, such as apple, pear, or mixed berry. Each variation brings its unique flavor, allowing you to adjust the recipe to your taste.

3. Chocolate Chip Delight: For a sweet twist, sprinkle some chocolate chips into the filling. The melted chocolate will create a rich and decadent surprise inside each apple.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the experience further, consider these serving ideas:

• Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream complements the warm apples beautifully, adding creaminess and richness to each bite.

• Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce over the baked apples adds an indulgent touch, enhancing the sweetness and creating a delightful flavor contrast with the tart cranberries.

• Spiced Tea or Coffee: Pairing your baked apples with a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a chilly autumn evening.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (though they’re sure to be a hit!), store any uneaten baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can be gently reheated in the oven or microwave before serving, making for an easy and comforting dessert any time you crave it.

By exploring these variations and pairings, you can create a memorable dessert that is not only delicious but also uniquely yours. Enjoy the process of experimenting, and let the flavors of fall inspire your kitchen adventures!

This additional content provides variations, serving suggestions, and storage tips, enriching the overall recipe experience for readers.

Tips for the Perfect Baked Apples

• Choosing the Right Apples: For the best results, choose apples that are firm and can hold their shape during baking. Varieties like Granny Smith provide a nice tartness, while Honeycrisp offers sweetness.

• Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the cranberry filling based on your taste preferences. If you enjoy a more tart flavor, reduce the sugar slightly.

• Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding other spices to the filling mixture, such as ginger or cloves, for a more complex flavor profile. You could also mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added texture.

• Make Ahead: These baked apples can be prepared a day in advance. Just assemble them, cover, and store in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This makes them a convenient option for entertaining.

Conclusion

Baked apples with cranberry filling are a quintessential autumn dessert that is sure to impress your guests while warming their hearts. This recipe is simple enough for anyone to try, yet it delivers a gourmet experience that feels special. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy evening at home, these baked apples are the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of the season. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and prepare to enjoy a slice of autumn with every bite!