Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that captures the essence of fall? Look no further! This Stouffer's Harvest Apples recipe is a delightful twist on a classic, perfect for cozy nights and family gatherings. It's surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Forget complicated baking – this homemade cooking masterpiece is ready in under an hour!
Ingredients:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix are ideal), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 cup butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup water
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This simple step ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Make sure there are no lumps for even flavor distribution.
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Layer Apples & Butter: Arrange the apple slices in the prepared baking dish. Dot the butter pieces evenly over the apples.
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Sprinkle Dry Mixture: Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over the buttered apples.
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Add Water: Pour the water over the apples and spices. This helps create a lovely, moist texture.
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Bake: Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it – ovens vary, so you might need to adjust the baking time slightly.
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Cool & Serve: Let the Stouffer's Harvest Apples cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Tips & Variations:
- Apple Variety: Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties. A combination of tart and sweet apples will create a beautiful balance of flavors.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ginger or allspice for a more complex flavor profile.
- Nutty Delight: Stir in 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend.
- Cranberry Twist: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries for a festive touch, especially perfect during the holiday season.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 200-250
- Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Protein: 2-3g
This recipe provides delicious dishes and easy recipes, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s a healthy meal option, especially if you choose to use less sugar and incorporate more nuts. This simple dessert showcases the best recipes and homemade cooking techniques, making it a fantastic addition to your fall baking repertoire. Enjoy!