Baked Apples with Honey and Cinnamon

Baked Apples with Honey and Cinnamon are the perfect cozy dessert for fall evenings or festive gatherings. Made with tender Golden apples, warm spices, and a touch of natural sweetness, this dish is as comforting as it is simple. Whether you’re looking for a lighter treat or a rustic dessert to impress guests, this easy recipe will become a seasonal favorite.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Naturally sweet and warm from cinnamon and honey
• Simple to prepare, no pie crust or dough needed
• Family-friendly and kid-approved
• Perfect served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or on their own
• Gluten-free and vegetarian, making it great for gatherings with mixed dietary needs

What Are Baked Apples?

Baked apples are a traditional comfort food that dates back centuries, often associated with harvest season and rustic European kitchens. Apples are peeled, cored, and filled or coated with sugar, spices, and other sweeteners before being baked until soft and golden. This version uses Golden apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, ground anise, and honey—bringing a classic dessert into a modern, wholesome spotlight.

Cooking Tips

• Choose the right apples: Golden apples are ideal for baking because they hold their shape well. Fuji or Honeycrisp also work great.
• Prevent browning: Rubbing the apples with lemon juice keeps them from oxidizing before baking.
• Don't skip the anise: Ground anise adds a subtle licorice-like depth—unique and aromatic.
• Baste with honey at the end: Brushing the apples with honey after they bake intensifies their flavor and gives them a glossy finish.
• Serve warm: These apples are best enjoyed straight from the oven, maybe with whipped cream or yogurt.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes! Try Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp for a sweeter touch, or Granny Smith if you like more tartness.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling helps the apples absorb the spices and bake evenly, but if you prefer the texture of the skin, you can leave it on.

Can I make these baked apples ahead of time?

You can bake them ahead and reheat before serving, but they’re at their best freshly baked and warm.

What can I serve with baked apples?

Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, Greek yogurt, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce make fantastic pairings.

Is this recipe vegan?

Swap out the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar to make this dish completely vegan.

Can I skip the ground anise?

Absolutely. If you’re not a fan, you can leave it out or replace it with a pinch of nutmeg or cloves.

How to Store Baked Apples

Let the baked apples cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F until warmed through, or microwave briefly if you're in a hurry.

How to Freeze Baked Apples

While baked apples are best fresh, you can freeze them if needed. Wrap each cooled apple individually in plastic wrap, then place in a zip-top freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven.

How to Make Baked Honey with Honey and Cinnamon

Preheat oven to 360°F (180°C).

Peel the apples using a vegetable peeler. Use an apple corer to remove the core and seeds.

Rub each apple with fresh lemon juice to prevent browning.

Roll the apples in brown sugar until fully coated.

Place them upright in a baking dish.

Sprinkle the tops with cinnamon and ground anise.

Bake for 35 minutes until tender.

Brush the tops of the apples with honey.

Return to the oven and bake an additional 10 minutes.

Serve warm and enjoy!