The inviting aroma of spiced apples warming in the oven transports me back to cozy autumn afternoons, filled with laughter and sweet treats. My recipe for Baked Apples with Cinnamon Whipped Cream is my go-to fall dessert, offering the ultimate comfort in every tender bite. This dish is not only easy to make but also creates a nostalgic atmosphere that brings family and friends together. The combination of tart Granny Smith apples, buttery brown sugar syrup, and a dollop of airy cinnamon whipped cream makes this dessert an instant crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a delightful twist on traditional apple pie, perfect for those craving something homemade yet simple. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the warm scents of the season? Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe!
Why Are Baked Apples Irresistible?
Warm, Cozy Flavor: The combination of tart Granny Smith apples and sweet brown sugar creates a flavor profile that’s simply unmatched.
Easy to Prepare: This recipe is perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks, requiring minimal ingredients and effort for maximum impact.
Nostalgic Comfort: Enjoying these baked apples is like being wrapped in a warm blanket; it’s a taste of childhood memories that every family will adore.
Versatile Delight: Whether served on their own, topped with ice cream, or alongside a slice of angel food cake, these baked apples suit any occasion.
Crowd-Pleasing Sweetness: They’re an instant hit during family gatherings or holiday get-togethers, especially when paired with fluffy Cinnamon Whipped Cream on top!
Time-Saving Treat: Prepare ahead and pop them in the oven when guests arrive for a delightful dessert that requires just a few minutes of active cooking time.
Baked Apples with Cinnamon Whipped Cream Ingredients
• For the Apples
- Baking Apples – 6-7 medium-sized Granny Smith apples essential for their tartness, but feel free to substitute with Honeycrisp or Fuji for added sweetness.
- Lemon Juice – Juice from 1/2 a lemon to prevent browning and brighten the apple flavor.
• For the Syrup
- Brown Sugar – 1/2 cup packed (light or dark) for the perfect balance of sweetness in the syrupy base.
- Ground Cinnamon – 2 teaspoons heaping, the spice star that weaves warmth throughout the dish; use apple pie spice for a fun twist.
- Allspice – 1/2 teaspoon to deepen the flavor; optional but offers a lovely nuance if you have it on hand.
- Corn Starch – 2 teaspoons thickening the syrup beautifully; flour can be used instead if needed.
- Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon enhances sweetness and richness for a delightful depth.
- Butter – 5-6 pads add richness to the dish; swap for a dairy-free alternative for a vegan option.
• For the Topping
- Cinnamon Whipped Cream – A heavenly homemade topping, crucial for serving and made with heavy cream and cinnamon for a cozy finish.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Apples with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Baked Apples will cook evenly and develop the perfect texture. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and prepare a shallow baking dish, ideally a ceramic pie plate, to hold the apples and syrup.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Wash and peel 6-7 medium-sized Granny Smith apples. Using an apple slicer, slice them evenly to ensure consistent cooking. Each slice should be about half an inch thick. Place them in a large bowl to keep them together while you prep the other ingredients, as their natural tartness is the star of your Baked Apples.
Step 3: Prevent Browning
Once sliced, pat the apple slices dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Squeeze juice from half a lemon over the apple slices and gently toss them. This will prevent browning and impart a bright flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your warm, comforting Baked Apples.
Step 4: Mix the Sugar and Spices
In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 2 teaspoons heaping of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of allspice, and 2 teaspoons of corn starch, mixing well. This sugary blend will coat the apple slices, creating a delicious caramelized syrup as they bake. Don’t skip the allspice—it adds an extra layer of warmth!
Step 5: Coat the Apples
Drizzle 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract over the apple slices, then coat them evenly with the prepared sugar mixture. Toss the apples gently to ensure that each slice is beautifully covered. The fragrant combination of sugar and spices will make your kitchen smell heavenly as they bake.
Step 6: Assemble in Baking Dish
Transfer the coated apple slices to your shallow baking dish, spreading them out evenly. Dot the top with 5-6 pads of butter, which will melt beautifully, blending into the syrup. Be sure to arrange the apples in a single layer for even cooking during baking.
Step 7: Bake with Foil Cover
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap steaming moisture. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. During this time, stir the apple mixture every 15 minutes to facilitate even cooking and prevent sticking, allowing the apples to soak in the syrup.
Step 8: Check Tenderness and Continue Baking
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and check the tenderness of the apples by piercing them with a fork. If they’re not soft enough for your liking, return them to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 15 minutes. The Baked Apples should be tender yet hold their shape, enveloped in a glossy syrup.
Step 9: Prepare the Cinnamon Whipped Cream
While the Baked Apples cool slightly, prepare the Cinnamon Whipped Cream. In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form, then incorporate cinnamon to taste. This fluffy topping will beautifully complement the warm apple dish when served.
Step 10: Serve Warm
Once the Baked Apples are ready, serve them warm in bowls with a generous dollop of Cinnamon Whipped Cream on top. The delightful contrast of warm, spiced apples and cool, creamy topping makes for a comforting treat. Your family will savor every tender bite of this classic fall dessert!
What to Serve with Baked Apples with Cinnamon Whipped Cream
The comforting aroma of baked apples wafting through your kitchen invites a cozy meal experience that’s perfect for fall gatherings.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The rich creaminess compliments the warm, spiced apples, offering a heavenly contrast in temperature.
- Toasty Almond Biscotti: These crunchy cookies add an elegant texture, perfect for dipping into the syrupy goodness of the apples.
- Zesty Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the sweetness, adding a refreshing bite to your meal.
- Sparkling Cider: The bubbly, fruity notes of sparkling cider enhance the autumn flavors, making it a festive drink choice.
- Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Soft, warm donuts dusted with cinnamon sugar make for a delightful treat alongside your baked apples.
- Old-Fashioned Buttermilk Pancakes: Drizzle the warm syrup from the apples over fluffy pancakes for a delicious brunch twist.
- Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: A dollop of chocolate spread on the side adds an indulgent twist that is sure to please chocolate lovers.
- Warm Nutty Granola: Serve the apples over a bed of warm nutty granola for a crunchy texture that melds beautifully with the soft fruit.
How to Store and Freeze Baked Apples
Fridge: Store your Baked Apples in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to preserve their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked apples in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy your Baked Apples, reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will bring back their delightful warmth and flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Apples with Cinnamon Whipped Cream are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can slice and toss the apples with lemon juice and the sugar mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container to preserve their freshness and prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, simply transfer the prepared apples to your baking dish, dot with butter, and bake as directed. For the whipped cream, prepare it shortly before serving for best results, but you can also make it up to 3 days ahead; just store it in the fridge in a sealed container. With these tips, you can enjoy a cozy dessert with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Baked Apples
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Choose the Right Apples: Granny Smith apples are your best bet for a perfect tart-sweet balance. If you prefer sweeter flavors, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples work beautifully too.
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Even Slicing Matters: Use an apple slicer for uniform slices. This ensures even cooking and prevents some apples from becoming mushy while others remain firm during baking.
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Avoid Excess Moisture: Pat the apple slices dry before tossing with lemon juice. This helps the apples absorb the syrup and prevents watery results in your Baked Apples with Cinnamon Whipped Cream.
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Don’t Skip the Stirring: Stirring the apples every 15 minutes during baking ensures all slices are coated in the syrup and cooked evenly—no one wants undercooked apples!
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Check for Tenderness: Make sure to check the apples after 45 minutes. They should be tender but still hold their shape. Bake longer if needed, but keep an eye on them to avoid mushiness.
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Fluffy Whipped Cream: When making the Cinnamon Whipped Cream, whip until soft peaks form. This ensures your topping is airy and will complement the warm apples perfectly.
Baked Apples with Cinnamon Whipped Cream Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make this recipe uniquely yours!
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft baked apples.
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Creamy Contrast: Serve warm Baked Apples over a scoop of vanilla ice cream or creamy yogurt for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures. This takes comfort to a whole new level!
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Spice it Up: Swap out allspice for freshly grated nutmeg to give your dish a different festive flair. This subtle change brings a warm, seasonal twist to every bite.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream or a dairy-free whipped topping instead of traditional whipped cream to make a vegan-friendly version that everyone can enjoy.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle with caramel sauce just before serving for an added layer of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon flavors. It’s a luscious finish that will wow your guests!
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Berry Boost: Toss in some fresh or frozen berries before baking for a fruity burst of flavor. Blueberries or raspberries blend beautifully with the apples’ sweetness.
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Herbal Note: Sprinkle in a pinch of thyme or rosemary along with your spices for an aromatic herbal note that heightens the dish’s complexity. It’s an unexpected twist that brings out the flavors beautifully.
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Flavor-Fused Apples: Instead of lemon juice, try drizzling a touch of maple syrup over the apples for a sweeter, deeper flavor profile that complements fall perfectly. It’s all about crafting your perfect version!
Feel inspired? Whether you stick with the classic combination or try something new, these Baked Apples are bound to be a hit! And you might just find a new favorite in this comforting fall dessert. For even more delicious twists, consider pairing them with a fluffy Cinnamon Whipped Cream or serve them alongside some delectable Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins.
Baked Apples with Cinnamon Whipped Cream Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for Baked Apples?
Absolutely! Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, providing a delightful balance to the sweetness of the syrup. If you prefer something sweeter, Honeycrisp or Fuji is a lovely alternative, just remember to adjust the sugar accordingly!
How should I store leftover Baked Apples?
You can store your Baked Apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Can I freeze Baked Apples?
Yes! To freeze your Baked Apples, place them in a freezer-safe container, ensuring they’re adequately sealed. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
What if my Baked Apples are too mushy?
Very! If you find your Baked Apples too mushy, it may be due to overbaking or using overly ripe fruit. In the future, keep an eye on their tenderness after the initial 45 minutes of baking; they should be tender yet maintain their shape. Consider adjusting the baking time based on the firmness of your apples to prevent this from happening.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! To make your Baked Apples with Cinnamon Whipped Cream dairy-free, simply substitute the regular butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut or almond cream for the whipped topping. You won’t sacrifice flavor, and everyone can enjoy this cozy fall dessert!
Baked Apples with Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Fall's Cozy Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and peel the apples, then slice them evenly.
- Pat the slices dry, squeeze lemon juice over them, and toss gently.
- Mix brown sugar, ground cinnamon, allspice, and corn starch in a bowl.
- Drizzle vanilla extract over the apple slices and coat them with the sugar mixture.
- Transfer coated apples to a baking dish and dot with butter.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
- Check tenderness after 45 minutes; bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes if needed.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Whipped Cream by whipping heavy cream and cinnamon together.
- Serve the baked apples warm with a generous dollop of Cinnamon Whipped Cream.
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