Are you craving a sweet treat but hesitant about the sugar rush and artificial ingredients? Then you're in the right place! This recipe for Baked Apples with Cinnamon and Oats is a delicious and guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth. It's a perfect example of how healthy eating doesn't have to mean sacrificing flavor. This recipe is easy, quick, and perfect for a healthy dessert or a satisfying snack. Let's dive in and create a delicious, clean-eating masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work well)
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 tablespoons water
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Apples: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash and core the apples, leaving about half an inch of the bottom intact to prevent them from falling apart.
Step 2: Create the Oat Topping: In a small bowl, combine the rolled oats, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and water. Mix well until the oats are evenly moistened. If using nuts, add them to the mixture now.
Step 3: Fill the Apples: Spoon the oat mixture evenly into the cored apples, filling them generously.
Step 4: Bake the Apples: Place the filled apples in a small baking dish and add about 1/4 inch of water to the bottom of the dish. This helps keep the apples moist during baking. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Let the baked apples cool slightly before serving. They're delicious warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Baked Apples:
- Apple Selection: Choose firm apples that hold their shape well during baking.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to experiment with other spices like ginger or cardamom.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of maple syrup to your preference.
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on your apples during baking, as ovens can vary. If they brown too quickly, loosely tent the dish with foil.
Variations:
- Cranberry Bliss: Add a handful of dried cranberries to the oat topping for a burst of tartness.
- Chocolate Delight: Stir in 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the oat mixture for a chocolatey twist.
- Fruity Fusion: Add other chopped fruits like blueberries or raspberries.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of fiber from the apples and oats, as well as vitamins and antioxidants. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. This recipe is naturally lower in added sugar compared to many desserts. For precise values, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and quantities.
This baked apple recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a sweet treat while maintaining a healthy diet. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to your taste preferences. Enjoy this delicious and healthy dessert!