Baked apples

Baked Apples with Butter and Cinnamon

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Whether reminiscing about cool autumn evenings or gathering around the table with loved ones, baked apples are a dessert that delights the senses and warms the soul. This simple and delicious recipe transforms apples into small works of art, filled with butter, sugar, and cinnamon, offering an explosion of flavor and texture. Get ready to discover how to achieve the most fragrant baked apples, which are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients needed:
- 4 medium apples (choose sweet and juicy varieties like Golden Delicious or Fuji)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust the amount based on the sweetness of the apples)
- 2 tablespoons of butter cut into small pieces (butter adds richness and creaminess)
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon (for a warm and comforting flavor)
- Jam for serving (choose any favorite jam – raspberry, apricot, or even apple jam for a more intense flavor)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the apples: Start by washing the apples thoroughly under cold running water. It's important to remove any impurities, as we want to enjoy every bite.

2. Hollowing the apples: Using a very sharp knife, hollow out each apple from the top down, being careful not to go all the way to the bottom. Partial hollowing will allow the filling to stay inside the apple. Leave the stem intact for a prettier presentation and to help maintain the shape of the apples during baking.

3. Filling the apples: Fill each apple with a small cube of butter, then add the sugar and cinnamon. Make sure the filling gets inside the apples, but don’t overfill to avoid spilling.

4. Preparing for baking: Place the apples in a heatproof dish, with the filled side up. This will allow the flavors to concentrate inside the apples during baking.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the dish with the apples inside. Let them bake for 30-35 minutes or until they become soft and golden. Check with a knife – it should go in easily into the flesh of the apple.

6. Serving: Once the apples are baked, let them cool slightly before removing them from the dish. Serve warm, alongside jam, for a delightful contrast between warm and cold.

Practical tips:

- Choosing apples: Select apples that are firm and healthy, without blemishes or mold. Sweet apples will provide a more enjoyable dessert.
- Variations of the filling: You can experiment with different fillings by adding chopped nuts or raisins for a crunchy texture and extra flavor.
- Customized flavors: If you love chocolate, try adding dark chocolate pieces to the filling for a decadent taste.
- Serving: This dessert pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a pleasant contrast between warm and cold.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 180 kcal
- Fat: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Protein: 1 g

Baked apples are not only a delicious dessert but also a healthy choice, rich in fiber and vitamins. This simple recipe can be adapted to suit everyone's preferences, making it perfect for any occasion.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other fruits to bake? Yes, you can use pears or peaches, following the same preparation steps.
2. How can I make the apples less sweet? You can reduce the amount of sugar or choose more tart apples.
3. Can I prepare the apples a day in advance? Yes, you can prepare the apples and bake them on the day of serving to keep them fresh.

These baked apples are not just a culinary delight but also a way to create unforgettable memories with loved ones. Try this simple recipe and let yourself be carried away by the enticing aromas of baked apples! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: Ingredients list: 2 tablespoons of sugar, 2 tablespoons of butter cut into small pieces, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 4 medium-sized apples and jam for serving (any jam can be served as long as it is on the preferred list).