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Looking for a simple yet impressive dessert? These baked apples with cinnamon and honey are exactly what you need. The combination of baked apples, cinnamon, and honey creates a warm, comforting treat that’s perfect for chilly evenings or special occasions. This classic recipe transforms ordinary apples into a delectable dessert with minimal effort and ingredients.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep time of just 10 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade dessert without the fuss
- Uses simple pantry ingredients you likely already have on hand – no special shopping trip required
- Naturally sweetened with honey instead of refined sugar, making it a healthier dessert option
- Incredibly versatile – can be served as a standalone dessert, breakfast item, or paired with ice cream for extra indulgence
- Makes your home smell absolutely amazing while baking – like a cozy fall candle but completely natural
Why These Baked Apples with Cinnamon & Honey Work with Baked Apples Cinnamon Honey
The magic of baked apples with cinnamon and honey lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. When apples bake, they soften and release their natural juices, creating a tender fruit that maintains just enough structure to hold its shape.
The cinnamon adds warmth and spice that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of the apples. Meanwhile, honey provides a rich sweetness that caramelizes slightly during baking, creating a delicious syrup that infuses throughout the fruit.
Unlike many desserts that require precise measurements and techniques, baked apples cinnamon honey is forgiving and adaptable. The recipe works with various apple varieties and can be adjusted to your preferred level of sweetness.
The simplicity of this dessert is what makes it so brilliant. With just a handful of ingredients, you create something that tastes like it took much more effort than it actually did – the hallmark of a truly great recipe.
What You’ll Need for Perfect Baked Apples with Cinnamon & Honey with Baked Apples Cinnamon Honey
Before diving into the baking process, gather everything you’ll need. The beauty of baked apples with cinnamon and honey is that the ingredient list is short and sweet, while the tools required are likely already in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 large apples (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith work well)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Handful of almonds, roughly chopped
For best results, choose firm apples that will hold their shape during baking. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, opt for Honeycrisp or Gala apples. For a more tart flavor that balances the honey’s sweetness, Granny Smith apples are excellent. Check out this Honey Baked Apples Recipe for more inspiration on apple varieties.
Tools
- Apple corer or small sharp knife
- Baking dish (8×8 inch works well)
- Measuring spoons
- Aluminum foil
- Non-stick cooking spray
Having the right tools makes the preparation process much smoother. If you don’t have an apple corer, don’t worry – a small, sharp knife will work just as well to hollow out the center of each apple.
How to Make Irresistible Easy Baked Apples with Cinnamon & Honey
Now let’s get to the heart of making these delicious baked apples with cinnamon and honey. The process is straightforward but yields impressive results.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and core each apple, hollowing out the inside while leaving the bottom intact. This creates a “bowl” to hold the filling.
- Place the prepared apples in a baking dish that has been lightly coated with non-stick cooking spray.
- Sprinkle the cavity of each apple with cinnamon, dividing the 2 teaspoons between them.
- Fill each apple cavity with 1 tablespoon of honey and sprinkle with chopped almonds.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture and help the apples cook evenly.
- Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 20 minutes, depending on the size and variety of apples. They’re done when they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
For a detailed visual guide, you might want to check out this Delicious Baked Apples Recipe which includes step-by-step photos.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Core your apples carefully, leaving about half an inch at the bottom intact to create a “cup” that will hold all the delicious honey and cinnamon mixture
- If your apples won’t sit flat in the baking dish, slice a small piece off the bottom to create a stable base – just be careful not to cut through to the hollow center
- For extra flavor, add a small pat of butter (about 1/2 teaspoon) on top of each apple before baking – it will melt and create a richer sauce
- Check your apples after 45 minutes by gently piercing with a fork – cooking time varies significantly depending on the apple variety and size
- Save any syrup that collects in the baking dish and drizzle it over the apples when serving – it’s too delicious to waste!
Serving and Storage Tips for Baked Apples with Cinnamon & Honey
Once your baked apples with cinnamon and honey are ready, it’s time to think about serving and storing them properly. The right presentation and storage methods can elevate this simple dessert and extend its shelf life.
Serving Tips
These baked apples are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy them:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic contrast of hot and cold
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a protein-rich, less indulgent option
- Drizzle with additional warm honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon
- Add a spoonful of whipped cream and a dash of nutmeg
- Pair with a small glass of dessert wine for an elegant after-dinner treat
For breakfast, try serving these baked apples alongside your morning oatmeal or granola. They also make a wonderful addition to a weekend brunch menu, as suggested in this Baked Apples Recipe from NYT Cooking.
For storage, keep any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes before serving.
Mistakes to Avoid while making Baked Apples with Cinnamon & Honey
Even with a simple recipe like baked apples with cinnamon and honey, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect your results. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Choosing the wrong apples: Avoid very soft varieties like McIntosh that will turn mushy when baked. Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith maintain their structure better.
- Not coring properly: If you don’t create a large enough cavity, there won’t be room for the filling. Conversely, if you cut through the bottom, the sweet filling will leak out during baking.
- Skipping the foil cover: Baking uncovered can dry out the apples and prevent them from getting properly tender.
- Underbaking: Properly baked apples should be easily pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. Underbaked apples will be too firm and less flavorful.
- Overbaking: Leave them in too long and your apples might collapse into applesauce!
Remember that different apple varieties require different baking times, so it’s important to check for doneness rather than relying solely on the clock. If you’re looking for more foolproof recipes, you might enjoy this Ultimate Chicken Casserole for another comforting dish.
You Must Know
- The type of apple you choose significantly impacts the final result – firmer varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith hold their shape better during baking, while softer varieties will cook faster and may become mushy
- Honey thickness varies by type and temperature – if your honey is too thick to pour easily, warm the jar in a bowl of hot water for a few minutes before measuring
- The cooking time can vary by up to 30 minutes depending on the size and variety of your apples – always test for doneness by piercing with a fork rather than relying solely on timing
- These baked apples can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated before baking – perfect for planning ahead for dinner parties or holiday meals
Suggestions for Enhancing Your Baked Apples with Cinnamon & Honey
While the basic recipe for baked apples with cinnamon and honey is delicious on its own, there are countless ways to customize it to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
Flavor Variations
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg or cardamom along with the cinnamon for a more complex spice profile
- Replace regular honey with flavored varieties like lavender or orange blossom honey
- Add a splash of vanilla extract or a few drops of orange zest to the honey mixture
- Include a tablespoon of raisins or dried cranberries in the filling
Texture Additions
- Mix in chopped walnuts, pecans, or pistachios instead of or in addition to the almonds
- Add a sprinkle of granola for extra crunch
- Include a tablespoon of rolled oats in each apple for a heartier filling
For a more indulgent twist, you could even add a small amount of crumbled cookie or a tablespoon of your favorite Keto Cloud Cake for an interesting texture contrast.
These enhancements make it easy to adapt the recipe to different dietary needs or preferences. You can even create a “baked apple bar” with various toppings and let everyone customize their own apple before baking.
FAQs:
The best apples for baking are varieties that hold their shape well and offer good flavor. Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Braeburn, Pink Lady, and Gala are excellent choices. Avoid softer varieties like McIntosh or Red Delicious as they tend to become mushy. Granny Smith provides a nice tartness that balances the honey’s sweetness, while Honeycrisp offers natural sweetness and maintains a perfect texture when baked.
Yes! You can prepare the apples by coring them and arranging them in the baking dish up to 24 hours in advance. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Add the cinnamon, honey, and nuts just before baking. Alternatively, you can fully bake the apples, refrigerate them for up to 3 days, and reheat when ready to serve. They reheat well in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 30-60 seconds per apple.
Absolutely! Maple syrup makes an excellent substitute for honey in this recipe, using the same amount (2 tablespoons). It creates a slightly different flavor profile with wonderful caramel notes that pair beautifully with apples and cinnamon. Other alternatives include agave nectar, date syrup, or even brown sugar if you prefer. Each sweetener will impart its own unique flavor to the finished dish.
Perfectly baked apples should be tender when pierced with a fork or knife, but still holding their shape. The skin may split slightly, and you might see some of the juices bubbling. Depending on the size and variety of apples, this typically takes 60-80 minutes at 350°F. If the fork slides in easily but meets some resistance (similar to a baked potato), they’re done. If they’re still firm, continue baking and check every 10 minutes.
Baked apples with cinnamon and honey are relatively healthy compared to many desserts. Apples provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Honey is a natural sweetener that contains trace minerals and antioxidants. Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar. This dessert is free from refined sugars, flour, and excessive fats. To make it even healthier, use less honey and add more nuts for protein and healthy fats. It’s a good option for those watching their calorie intake or seeking more nutritious dessert alternatives.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love These Baked Apples with Cinnamon & Honey
These baked apples with cinnamon and honey represent the perfect intersection of simplicity and satisfaction. With minimal ingredients and effort, you create a dessert that feels both homey and special at the same time.
The natural sweetness of the apples enhanced by warming cinnamon and rich honey creates a dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth without overwhelming it. It’s a recipe that celebrates the fruit rather than hiding it under layers of sugar and processing.
Whether you’re serving these baked apples as a weeknight treat, a holiday dessert, or even a special breakfast, they’re sure to impress. The versatility of this recipe also means you can adapt it countless ways to suit your taste or what you have in your pantry.
For those looking to expand their recipe collection, you might also enjoy this 10-Minute Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta for another simple yet impressive dish.
Give these baked apples with cinnamon and honey a try tonight – your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you!
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📖 Recipe Card
Easy Baked Apples with Cinnamon & Honey
- Total Time: 80 mins
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
These baked apples are infused with warm cinnamon and sweet honey, creating a cozy, comforting dessert that’s easy to prepare and naturally sweetened.
Ingredients
- 2 large apples (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons honey
- Handful of almonds, roughly chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Core apples, leaving bottom intact.
- Place in greased baking dish.
- Fill cavities with cinnamon, honey, and almonds.
- Cover and bake 60–80 minutes until tender.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Add a pat of butter for richness.
- Syrup from the pan makes a great drizzle.
- Prep apples ahead and bake when needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 baked apple
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: baked apple dessert, honey cinnamon apples, apple dessert healthy, baked Gala apples, Granny Smith dessert, healthy fall dessert
