Baked apples

Baked apples with a filling of raisins and decadent sauce - a delicious recipe that combines the warm and comforting flavors of autumn with a touch of elegance! These baked apples are a simple yet sophisticated dessert, perfect for impressing guests or celebrating family moments. Plus, cooking them in a Crock Pot makes everything even easier. Let’s embark on this recipe adventure!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 4 large apples (preferably sweet-tart varieties like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious)
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 100 g butter
- 100 g raisins
- 1 vanilla pod
- 100 ml cognac or cherry
- 4 tablespoons brown sugar
- 3-4 cardamom pods
- 3-4 allspice berries
- 50 ml water
- 4 scoops of caramel or vanilla ice cream (optional)
- 4 tablespoons vanilla topping (optional)

The story behind the recipe

Baked apples have been a traditional dessert in many cultures, often associated with autumn holidays and family gatherings. Filled with various ingredients such as nuts, raisins, or even chocolate, these apples become a symbol of comfort and warmth. Cooked in a Crock Pot, the preparation method becomes even simpler, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify over time.

Preparing the apples

1. Preparing the apples: Start by washing the apples well. Use a sharp knife to core them, being careful to leave about 1 cm of flesh intact at the bottom of each apple. This will help hold the filling and juices during cooking.

2. Filling the apples: Fill each apple with raisins, ensuring they are well distributed. They will add natural sweetness and a pleasant texture to the dessert.

3. Seasoning: On top of each apple, add a tablespoon of brown sugar and a little ground cinnamon. The sugar will caramelize, and the cinnamon will provide a warm and familiar taste.

4. Adding flavors: Insert a cinnamon stick into each apple and add a cube of butter on top. The butter will melt and add a delicious richness.

5. Drizzling with alcohol: Drizzle each apple with cognac or cherry, bringing an extra layer of sophisticated flavors. If you prefer, you can skip this step for a non-alcoholic version.

6. Preparing the sauce: In the Crock Pot, add the water, cardamom pods, and allspice berries. Split the vanilla pod and add both the seeds and the pod to the pot. These spices will transform the sauce into a true explosion of flavors.

Cooking

7. Setting the Crock Pot: Place the stuffed apples in the Crock Pot on the 'Sauté' setting. Set the time for 2 hours and 30 minutes on 'High'. This time will allow the apples to become tender and the flavors to fully develop.

Serving

8. Checking the apples: At the end of the cooking time, check with a knife if the apples have softened enough. If they are tender and easily pierced, they are ready to serve!

9. Plating: Carefully place each apple on a plate. Drizzle them with the delicious sauce they released in the Crock Pot.

10. Adding ice cream: For a contrast in temperature and texture, serve each apple with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. Top with a vanilla sauce for a truly appetizing appearance.

Practical tips

- Choosing the apples: Choose firm apples that hold up well during cooking. Soft apples, like dessert varieties, will disintegrate and won’t provide that pleasant texture.

- Alcohol-free version: If you prefer a non-alcoholic recipe, you can use apple juice or raspberry syrup to add sweetness and flavor.

- Storing the sauce: The sauce left by the apples can also be used to drizzle over pancakes or waffles, turning them into a wonderful dessert!

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other fruits?
Sure! You can try using pears or peaches, adjusting the cooking time based on the fruits.

- How many calories does each serving have?
This recipe has approximately 300-350 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. Apples are rich in fiber and antioxidants, and raisins add an extra boost of energy.

- How can I store leftovers?
If you have leftover baked apples, you can store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave to restore their soft texture.

This baked apple recipe is not just a dessert, but also a cooking experience that fills your home with enticing aromas. Try it with your loved ones and enjoy every bite! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: (4 servings) Apples 4 pieces Cinnamon sticks 4 pieces Ground cinnamon 2 teaspoons Butter 100 g Raisins 100 g Vanilla pod 1 piece Cognac or cherry 100 ml Brown sugar 4 tablespoons Cardamom pods 3-4 pieces Allspice berries 3-4 pieces Water 50 ml Caramel or vanilla ice cream 4 scoops Vanilla topping 4 tablespoons