Pin Recipe Tender baked apples filled with a wholesome oat and nut crumble, offering natural sweetness with less sugar. A comforting, healthier dessert perfect for cooler days.
I first made these baked apples on a chilly autumn afternoon and the aroma filled the house, making everyone crave a warm dessert. They quickly became a family favorite for their simple preparation and cozy comfort.
Ingredients
- Apples: 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Braeburn), cored
- Rolled oats: 1/2 cup
- Walnuts or pecans: 1/3 cup, chopped
- Almond flour (or whole wheat flour): 2 tbsp
- Light brown sugar or coconut sugar: 2 tbsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1/2 tsp
- Ground nutmeg: 1/4 tsp
- Salt: Pinch
- Unsalted butter, melted: 2 tbsp
- Unsweetened applesauce: 2 tbsp
- Optional - Raisins or dried cranberries: 1/4 cup
Instructions
- Prep oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Prep 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 wet ingredients:
- Add melted butter and applesauce to the mixture. Stir until the crumble is evenly moistened
- Optional add-ins:
- 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
- Initial bake:
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes
- Finish baking:
- 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 Recipe Serving baked apples after a family dinner is always met with smiles. Everyone loves customizing their toppings, from yogurt to maple syrup, for a perfect individual dessert.
Required Tools
Apple corer or paring knife, mixing bowl, baking dish, measuring cups, measuring spoons, aluminum foil.
Allergen Information
Contains nuts and dairy. Can be made nut-free by omitting nuts and dairy-free by using plant-based butter. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 220, Total Fat: 9 g, Carbohydrates: 35 g, Protein: 3 g.
Pin Recipe Baked apples with oat-nut crumble are a cozy treat to enjoy on cool days. Keep leftovers chilled and reheat for a quick, wholesome snack.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of apples work best?
Medium-firm apples like Honeycrisp or Braeburn are ideal to hold their shape and provide a balance of tartness and sweetness.
- → Can I substitute nuts in the crumble?
Yes, pecans or walnuts work well, and they can be omitted for a nut-free version focusing on oats and spices.
- → How can I make it vegan friendly?
Use plant-based butter and ensure any added ingredients like sugar comply with vegan standards.
- → What spices enhance the flavor?
Ground cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth, complementing the natural sweetness of the apples.
- → Is it better served warm or cold?
This dish is best enjoyed warm, either plain or accompanied by yogurt or maple syrup for added creaminess and sweetness.
- → Can I use pears instead of apples?
Yes, pears offer a pleasant variation with a softer texture and natural sweetness that works well with the oat-nut crumble.