Save Tender baked apples filled with a wholesome oat and nut crumble offer natural sweetness with less sugar. This is a comforting and healthier dessert perfect for cooler days.
I first made these baked apples for a weekend family dinner. Everyone loved the warm, nutty topping and the soft apples that remind us of classic autumn desserts.
Ingredients
- Apples: 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Braeburn), cored
- Crumble Topping: 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, 2 tbsp almond flour (or whole wheat flour), 2 tbsp light brown sugar or coconut sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, Pinch of salt, 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted), 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce
- Optional: 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries
Instructions
- Prepare Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Apples:
- Wash and core the apples, creating a cavity for the filling while leaving the bottom intact.
- Mix Crumble:
- In a medium bowl, combine oats, nuts, almond flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.
- Add Moist Ingredients:
- Add melted butter and applesauce to the mixture. Stir until the crumble is evenly moistened.
- (Optional) Dried Fruit:
- Stir in raisins or dried cranberries if desired.
- Fill Apples:
- Place apples upright in a baking dish. Fill each apple generously with the oat-nut crumble.
- Add Water:
- Add 2-3 tablespoons of water to the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
- Bake Covered:
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered:
- Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden.
- Serve:
- Serve warm, plain or with a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Pin it Sharing these baked apples after dinner always sparks warm family memories, especially when everyone gathers around for dessert on chilly evenings.
Required Tools
Apple corer or paring knife, mixing bowl, baking dish, measuring cups and spoons, aluminum foil
Allergen Information
Contains nuts (walnuts/pecans) and dairy (butter). Use alternatives for nut-free or dairy-free versions. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 220, Total Fat 9 g, Carbohydrates 35 g, Protein 3 g
Pin it This easy dessert is perfect for sharing and makes a lovely ending to any meal. Enjoy each bite warm from the oven with your favorite toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What types of apples work best for baking?
Firm apples like Honeycrisp or Braeburn hold their shape well and provide a balanced sweetness when baked.
- → Can I substitute nuts in the crumble topping?
Yes, walnuts and pecans are common choices, but you can omit nuts or use seeds for a nut-free alternative.
- → How do I prevent the crumble from getting soggy?
Ensure the crumble topping is properly mixed with melted butter and applesauce, and bake uncovered after initial steaming to crisp the topping.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Using plant-based butter instead of dairy butter makes it suitable for a vegan diet without sacrificing flavor.
- → Can pears be used instead of apples?
Pears offer a nice variation with a slightly softer texture and subtle sweetness, making them a great alternative.
- → How can I enhance the flavor of the crumble?
Adding a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg brings warmth and depth, complementing the natural sweetness of the fruit.