Baked Apples are a warm, comforting dessert made with just a few simple ingredients: apples, lemon, sugar, cinnamon, and water. Perfect for cozy evenings, holiday dinners, or an easy weeknight treat, this recipe brings out the natural sweetness of apples and fills your kitchen with the aroma of fall spices. It’s a classic that never goes out of style—and it’s ready in just 30 minutes!
Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe
- Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor—just 5 pantry staples!
- Naturally vegan and gluten-free.
- A warm, comforting dessert that's perfect any time of year.
- Easy to make in one pan with zero fuss.
- Great for meal prep—serve warm or chilled!
What Are Baked Apples?
Baked apples are a timeless dessert made by gently cooking apples until tender, often flavored with cinnamon, lemon, and sugar. They’ve been enjoyed for centuries across many cultures, particularly in Europe and North America, where apples are abundant. This recipe softens chopped apples in a warm syrup of citrus and cinnamon, creating a spoonable version of the baked apple classic. Served in jars, they make a rustic, elegant treat that feels both nostalgic and indulgent.
Cooking Tips
- Choose the right apples: Go for firm, slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji—they hold their shape and balance the sweetness.
- Adjust sweetness: You can reduce or increase the sugar depending on your apples or taste preference.
- Don’t overcook: Stir occasionally and check that apples are fork-tender but not mushy.
- Add-ins welcome: A handful of raisins, cranberries, or chopped nuts can add texture and depth.
- Serve creatively: Use these baked apples over pancakes, oatmeal, yogurt, or even ice cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown sugar instead of cane sugar?
Yes! Brown sugar adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor and works beautifully in this recipe.
Which apples are best for baking?
Use firm, crisp apples like Granny Smith, Gala, or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor after baking.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling helps achieve a soft, uniform texture. However, you can leave the peels on for added fiber and a more rustic feel.
How long do baked apples last in the fridge?
They stay fresh for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I use this as pie filling?
Definitely! These apples make a delicious base for tarts, turnovers, or even a rustic galette.
How to Store Baked Apples
Let the apples cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or jar. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave before serving, or enjoy cold straight from the fridge.
How to Freeze Baked Apples
To freeze, let the apples cool completely and place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Ingredients
How to Make Baked Apples
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Peel the apples, remove the cores, and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Peel the apples, remove the cores, and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
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Place the apple pieces in a large pan. Add lemon juice, powdered cane sugar, cinnamon, and water. Stir everything to combine.
Place the apple pieces in a large pan. Add lemon juice, powdered cane sugar, cinnamon, and water. Stir everything to combine.
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Set over medium heat and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until apples are tender and the syrup thickens slightly.
Set over medium heat and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until apples are tender and the syrup thickens slightly.
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Spoon the warm baked apples into jars or bowls. Garnish with cinnamon sticks for a festive touch.
Spoon the warm baked apples into jars or bowls. Garnish with cinnamon sticks for a festive touch.
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Enjoy warm, chilled, or topped with your favorite cream or yogurt.
Enjoy warm, chilled, or topped with your favorite cream or yogurt.
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