Introduction
Craving a warm, comforting dessert that’s both delicious and easy to make? Look no further than these Baked Apples with Oatmeal. This dish combines the natural sweetness of apples with a spiced, crunchy oatmeal filling, making it perfect for a cozy treat any time of the year.
Why You’ll Love These Baked Apples with Oatmeal
- Easy to Make: Simple steps with minimal ingredients.
- Comforting: Warm, spiced apples with a crunchy topping.
- Healthy: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Ingredients Overview
Main Ingredients
- 4 apples, halved and cored (Jonagold, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, Granny Smith, or Pink Lady)
- ½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon cardamom
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ cup water
- 2 teaspoons corn starch
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Apples
- Turn on the Oven: Turn on your oven and heat it up to 350 degrees F.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Place the halved and cored apples in a 9×13 baking dish.
Making the Filling
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the pecans, oats, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, cardamom, and kosher salt until well combined.
Assembling the Dish
- Fill the Apples: Spoon the oatmeal mixture into the hollowed-out centers of the apples, dividing it evenly among them.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the water, corn starch, and lemon juice until the corn starch is fully dissolved. Pour this mixture over the apples in the baking dish.
Baking and Serving
- Bake the Apples: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve: Serve immediately while warm, or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips for Perfect Baked Apples with Oatmeal
- Uniform Size: Ensure all apple halves are similar in size for even baking.
- Check for Doneness: The apples should be tender but not mushy when done.
- Quick Assembly: Prepare the filling and sauce while the oven preheats to save time.
Choosing the Right Apples
For the best results, choose apples that hold their shape well when baked. Excellent varieties include Jonagold, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, Granny Smith, and Pink Lady.
Health Benefits of Baked Apples with Oatmeal
- Fiber-Rich: Apples and oats provide a good source of dietary fiber.
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- Balanced Treat: Offers a mix of healthy fats, carbs, and protein.
Serving Suggestions
- Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
- Yogurt: Pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- Whipped Cream: Top with whipped cream for added indulgence.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Different Nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts.
- Dried Fruits: Add raisins or cranberries to the filling for extra sweetness.
- Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or cloves for a different spice profile.
Storing Your Baked Apples with Oatmeal
To maintain the freshness and quality of any remaining food, it is recommended to store it in a hermetically sealed container within the refrigerator for a maximum period of three days. Prior to consumption, reheating can be done either in a microwave or oven, ensuring that the food is served warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Nuts?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts.
What If I Don’t Have Corn Starch?
You can use arrowroot powder or all-purpose flour as a thickener instead of corn starch.
How Long Do These Apples Last?
These baked apples can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
Can I Add Other Fruits?
Yes, you can add dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or apricots to the filling for additional flavor and texture.
Conclusion
These Baked Apples with Oatmeal are a delightful and healthy dessert that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender, spiced apples with a crunchy oatmeal-pecan topping is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy this cozy treat fresh out of the oven, and don’t forget to experiment with the variations to make it your own!