Baked Apple Wedges

Introduction

History

The tradition of baking apples dates back centuries and spans across many cultures. In America, baked apples became popular as early as the colonial times, when settlers had to be creative with their limited ingredients. This recipe, with its simplicity and reliance on readily available ingredients, reflects the rustic and comforting dishes that have been enjoyed for generations. The use of cinnamon and sugar with apples is a classic combination that has stood the test of time, evolving from the early days of open hearth cooking to today's modern ovens.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, choose apples that are firm and have a good balance of sweet and tart flavors, such as Rome, Cortland, or Golden Delicious. To ensure even cooking, try to cut the apples into uniform wedges or quarters. If you prefer a softer texture, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then remove the foil to allow the apples to get a slight caramelization on top. Adding a small amount of water or apple juice to the bottom of the dish can also help to keep the apples moist during baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Baked Apple Wedges warm, either as a standalone dessert or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination. They also make a delicious topping for oatmeal or yogurt, adding natural sweetness and warmth to your breakfast.

Cooking Techniques

For a more intense flavor, consider caramelizing the brown sugar and margarine in a pan before adding it to the apples. This technique creates a richer, more complex flavor that elevates the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer not to use margarine, unsalted butter can be used as a direct substitute. For a sugar-free version, omit the brown sugar and rely on the natural sweetness of the apples, or use a sugar substitute that can withstand the heat of baking.

Make Ahead Tips

The apples can be peeled, cored, and cut into wedges ahead of time and stored in a mixture of water and lemon juice to prevent browning. Drain and pat dry before proceeding with the recipe.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Baked Apple Wedges in a rustic dish to highlight their homey appeal. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce can add an elegant touch for special occasions.

Pairing Recommendations

Baked Apple Wedges pair beautifully with a glass of dessert wine, such as a late harvest Riesling, which complements the sweetness and spiciness of the dish. For a non-alcoholic option, a spiced apple cider makes a cozy and harmonious choice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Baked Apple Wedges contains approximately 95 calories, making it a low-calorie dessert option. This calorie count can vary slightly based on the size and variety of the apples used, as well as any additional toppings or pairings.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Baked Apple Wedges primarily provides carbohydrates, with a single serving containing approximately 22 grams of carbs. The majority of these carbohydrates come from the natural sugars found in apples, making this a healthier option compared to desserts with added refined sugars.

Fats

This recipe is low in fats, with only a small amount contributed by the margarine used to dot the apples before baking. A serving contains roughly 1 gram of fat, making it a heart-healthy choice for those monitoring their fat intake.

Proteins

Baked Apple Wedges are not a significant source of protein, containing less than 1 gram per serving. For a more balanced snack or dessert, consider pairing the apples with a serving of Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts for added protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Apples are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, particularly Vitamin C and potassium. Baking the apples retains most of these nutrients, making Baked Apple Wedges a nutritious option. The addition of orange juice, even in a small amount, can further boost the Vitamin C content.

Alergens

This recipe is free from most common allergens, including gluten, nuts, dairy, and eggs. However, those with specific food sensitivities should ensure that all ingredients, particularly the margarine, meet their dietary needs.

Summary

Baked Apple Wedges offer a nutritious, low-calorie dessert option that is rich in carbohydrates and low in fats and proteins. They provide essential vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition to any meal.

Summary

Baked Apple Wedges are a versatile, nutritious, and delicious dessert that showcases the natural flavors of apples. With a variety of serving suggestions and the potential for customization, this recipe can easily become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Whether enjoyed on their own or as part of a more elaborate dish, Baked Apple Wedges are sure to delight.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something special. It was a crisp autumn day and I was visiting my dear friend Mary in her cozy kitchen. As we sipped on steaming cups of tea, she pulled out a worn, stained recipe card from her collection. "Have you ever tried Baked Apple Wedges?" she asked with a twinkle in her eye. I shook my head, intrigued by the name. Mary explained that it was a simple yet delicious dessert that she had learned from her own grandmother many years ago.

As Mary began to gather the ingredients, I watched in awe as she effortlessly peeled and sliced the apples into perfect wedges. The scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the air as she sprinkled the spices over the fruit. In no time at all, the apple wedges were nestled in a baking dish, ready to be topped with a buttery crumb mixture.

As the apples baked in the oven, Mary shared the story of how she had learned to make this recipe. It was a cherished family tradition that had been passed down through the generations. Her grandmother had taught her the recipe when she was just a young girl, and Mary had been making it ever since. She spoke fondly of the memories she had of baking with her grandmother, the kitchen filled with laughter and love.

When the timer dinged, we eagerly pulled the bubbling dish of Baked Apple Wedges from the oven. The apples were soft and tender, coated in a golden crumb topping that glistened in the light. Mary scooped out generous portions onto plates and handed me a fork. I took a bite and was immediately transported back in time to my own childhood, when my own grandmother would bake apple pies on crisp fall days.

The taste of the warm, spiced apples was like a hug from the past, comforting and familiar. I savored each bite, feeling grateful for the friendship and shared memories that had brought me to this moment. As we finished our dessert, Mary promised to write down the recipe for me to take home.

That night, as I lay in bed with a full belly and a content heart, I thought about the power of food to connect us to our past and to the ones we love. The recipe for Baked Apple Wedges was more than just a dessert – it was a link to the generations of women who had come before me, passing down their knowledge and traditions through the simple act of cooking.

In the years that followed, I made Baked Apple Wedges countless times, each time thinking of Mary and her grandmother. I shared the recipe with friends and family, spreading the love and warmth that came with each bite. And as I grew older, I realized that the true magic of cooking lies not just in the flavors and textures of the food, but in the stories and memories that accompany each dish.

So now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells of cinnamon and apples, I think of all the women who came before me, each one adding their own touch to this timeless recipe. And I smile, knowing that the tradition will continue on, passed down to the next generation of bakers who will one day learn to make Baked Apple Wedges from someone they love.

Categories

| Baking Recipes | Brown Sugar Recipes | Golden Delicious Apple Recipes | Orange Juice Recipes |

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