Are you looking for a simple yet elegant dessert that's perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion? Look no further! This recipe for crispy baked apples nestled in delicate filo pastry is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. It's the perfect blend of sweet and crunchy textures, making it a delightful treat for everyone. This recipe is a great example of homemade cooking at its finest, delivering delicious dishes with ease. It's also a fantastic option for healthy meals, offering a naturally sweet dessert without excessive added sugar. Let's get started on this quick dinner idea, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 package (8 sheets) filo dough, thawed
- 2 tablespoons melted butter, for brushing
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet.
Prepare the apples: Core the apples, leaving about 1/2 inch of the bottom intact to hold their shape. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Fill the apples: Stuff the cored apples with the sugar-spice mixture, raisins (if using), and nuts (if using).
Assemble the filo: Lay out a sheet of filo dough. Brush lightly with melted butter. Top with another sheet of filo, brush with butter, and repeat until you have used two sheets per apple. Place a prepared apple in the center of the filo nest. Fold the filo over the apple, creating a neat parcel. Repeat with the remaining apples and filo sheets.
Bake the apples: Place the filo-wrapped apples on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with remaining melted butter. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filo is golden brown and crispy, and the apples are tender.
Serve and enjoy: Let the baked apples cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar (optional) and enjoy this simple yet impressive dessert! This is a great example of easy recipes that are both delicious and satisfying.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the sugar-spice mixture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the filling for a warmer flavor profile.
- Make it vegan: Use vegan butter and omit the honey.
- Add some sweetness: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup after baking adds extra sweetness and depth of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 12-15g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Protein: 3-4g
This recipe is perfect for using up leftover filo dough, making it a cost-effective and delicious option. It also provides a healthy alternative to heavier desserts, incorporating the natural sweetness of apples with wholesome spices. Enjoy this simple yet elegant addition to your best recipes repertoire, a true testament to the beauty of homemade cooking. This recipe showcases how easy it is to create delicious dishes, making it a wonderful option for quick dinner ideas and satisfying those cravings for something sweet!