Oh, let me tell you, there’s just something magical about Thanksgiving apples! When the leaves start to turn and the air gets that crispness, I can’t help but think of these warm, gooey baked apples. They’re not your average dessert; they’re like a cozy hug from the inside out! I remember the first time I made them for Thanksgiving—it was a last-minute idea, and everyone went crazy for them! The sweet cinnamon filling spilling out, combined with that tender apple texture—it’s pure bliss. Trust me, this delightful treat will steal the show and warm your heart as you gather with loved ones around the table.
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Thanksgiving apples a hit! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 medium apples (I love using Granny Smith for their tartness, but any apple you enjoy will work!)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (this adds that rich, caramel-like sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (the warmth of cinnamon is essential—don’t skimp!)
- 1/4 cup raisins (they plump up beautifully during baking and add a nice chew)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (I usually go for walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch)
- 1/2 cup apple juice (this keeps the apples moist and enhances their flavor)
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go—it’ll make the cooking process so much smoother!
How to Prepare Thanksgiving Apples
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—preparing those scrumptious Thanksgiving apples! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to impress everyone.
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because starting with a hot oven ensures that the apples cook evenly and become tender without turning mushy. Just think of that delicious aroma filling your kitchen—wow!
Step 2: Core the Apples
Next, grab your apples and let’s get to coring! Carefully use an apple corer or a paring knife to remove the core from each apple. It’s essential to do this so that we can pack in all that yummy filling. Make sure you don’t cut through the bottom; we want the apples to hold that sweet goodness inside!
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, raisins, and chopped nuts. Give it a good stir until everything is nicely mixed. The sweet and spicy scent will make your mouth water! This filling is where the magic happens, so make sure it’s well combined for that perfect flavor in each bite.
Step 4: Fill the Apples
Now comes the fun part—filling the apples! Take your mixture and gently stuff it into each cored apple, packing it in well. You want to really fill them up so that when they bake, the filling spills out a little and creates that irresistible sauce. Yum!
Step 5: Add Apple Juice
Pour the apple juice into the bottom of the baking dish. This is crucial because it helps keep the apples moist while they bake. Plus, it adds a little extra flavor that seeps into the apples as they soften. Trust me, you’ll love the result!
Step 6: Bake the Apples
Finally, pop those beauties in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the apples are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Keep an eye on them—every oven is a bit different. Once they’re out, let them cool just a bit before serving. The anticipation is half the fun!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: You can whip these up in just 15 minutes, making them a breeze for any Thanksgiving gathering!
- Easy to make: With simple steps, even novice cooks can master this delightful dessert.
- Flavorful: The combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and crunchy nuts creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist.
- Healthy dessert: Packed with fruit and nuts, these baked apples are a wholesome treat that feels indulgent without the guilt.
- Perfect fit for Thanksgiving: They capture the essence of the season and make a stunning centerpiece on your dessert table.
Tips for Success
Want to take your Thanksgiving apples to the next level? Here are some pro tips that’ll make your baked apples absolutely perfect:
- Choose the Right Apples: Go for firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. They hold their shape well while baking and provide a lovely balance of sweet and tart flavors.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste your filling mixture before stuffing the apples. If you prefer it sweeter, feel free to add a bit more brown sugar or even a drizzle of maple syrup. It’s all about your personal taste!
- Try Different Nuts: Experiment with different nuts like almonds or pecans for a twist. Each nut adds its own unique flavor and crunch!
- Don’t Skip the Apple Juice: This isn’t just for moisture; it enhances the flavor of the apples. If you want to get fancy, feel free to swap it out for a splash of apple cider for an even richer taste.
- Let Them Rest: After baking, let your apples sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set a bit, making them easier to serve and enjoy!
With these tips, you’ll have Thanksgiving apples that are not only delicious but also a showstopper at your holiday table!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional information for these delightful Thanksgiving apples! Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Here’s a quick breakdown per serving (1 apple):
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Sugar: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
These baked apples offer a sweet treat that’s not only delicious but also brings some wholesome goodness to your holiday table. Enjoy every bite, guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While I love using Granny Smith for their tartness, you can experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just make sure to pick apples that are firm so they hold up well during baking!
How do I know when the baked apples are done?
You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender and easily pierced with a fork. Keep an eye on them in the oven, as cooking times can vary a bit depending on the size of your apples.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can totally prepare the filling a day in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just stuff the apples and pop them in the oven!
What can I serve with Thanksgiving apples?
These baked apples are delicious on their own, but I recommend serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra treat. They also pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream!
Can I make these Thanksgiving apples in advance?
While they’re best fresh out of the oven, you can certainly prepare them ahead of time. Just bake them, let them cool, and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them gently in the oven before serving!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover Thanksgiving apples? No problem! Storing them properly will keep those delicious flavors intact. Once they’ve cooled down, simply transfer any uneaten baked apples into an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to separate any apples that have been topped with ice cream or sauce, as they can get soggy.
When it’s time to enjoy them again, reheating is super simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then place the apples in a baking dish. Cover them with foil to prevent them from drying out, and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also pop them in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, just be careful not to overheat them! Serve them warm, and they’re sure to bring back that cozy Thanksgiving magic!
Print
Thanksgiving Apples: 5 Steps to Cozy Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious Thanksgiving dessert featuring baked apples with a sweet cinnamon filling.
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
- 1/2 cup apple juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Core the apples and place them in a baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, raisins, and nuts.
- Fill the apples with the mixture.
- Pour apple juice into the baking dish.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until apples are tender.
Notes
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
- Adjust sweetness based on your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 apple
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: thanksgiving apples, baked apples, dessert
