Baked Apples with Amaretto

Baked Apples with Amaretto Recipe - Authentic Italian Dessert

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes to 1 hour | Servings: 8

Introduction

Baked Apples with Amaretto is a delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the rich, almond-like flavor of Amaretto liqueur. This simple yet elegant dish is perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a festive holiday gathering. The recipe is straightforward, requiring just a few ingredients, and the result is a warm, comforting dessert that's sure to impress.

History

The tradition of baking apples dates back centuries, with variations found in many cultures around the world. The addition of Amaretto, an Italian liqueur, gives this classic dessert a unique twist. Amaretto, which originated in Saronno, Italy, in the 16th century, is known for its sweet, slightly bitter almond flavor, although it's actually made from apricot pits. Combining baked apples with Amaretto is a relatively modern innovation that marries the rustic charm of baked fruit with the sophistication of Italian liqueur.

Ingredients

8 baking apples, such as Jonathan, JonaGold, Ida Red, Fuji, and Cortland, cored
vegetable oil for greasing pan
about 1.5 cups of dark brown sugar
about 0.33 cup of amaretto liqueur
lightly sweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional)

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Place the apples in a lightly oiled baking pan that is just large enough to hold them in a single layer.
If necessary, trim the bottoms of the apples so that they can stand upright.
Sprinkle 2 to 3 tbsp of sugar in the center and on top of each apple.
Drizzle 1 or 2 tsp of amaretto in the center and over each apple.
Bake the apples until they are very tender and the sugar has melted, which should take about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size of the apples.
To serve, place the hot apples in individual bowls and top them with some of the liquid from the pan.
If desired, you can serve the apples with whipped cream or ice cream.

Variations

For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the Amaretto with almond extract mixed with water or apple juice.
Add dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, to the sugar filling for additional texture and flavor.
Mix in chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, with the brown sugar for a crunchy contrast.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Baked Apples with Amaretto turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Choose the right type of apple. Varieties like Jonathan, JonaGold, Ida Red, Fuji, and Cortland are excellent for baking as they hold their shape well and offer a good balance of sweetness and acidity.

- Core the apples carefully to avoid cutting through the bottom, which would cause the filling to leak out.

- Adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of the apples and your personal preference.

- To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar mixture.

- Serve the baked apples warm for the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the baked apples warm, with a drizzle of the cooking liquid from the pan. For an extra indulgent treat, add a scoop of lightly sweetened ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. A sprinkle of toasted almonds or a pinch of cinnamon can also enhance the flavors.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, which allows the apples to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully. Ensuring the oven is preheated and baking the apples at the right temperature is key to achieving the perfect texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Amaretto is not available, other liqueurs like Grand Marnier or a simple syrup flavored with almond extract can be used as substitutes.

- Brown sugar can be replaced with maple syrup or honey for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

While best served fresh, you can prepare the apples and arrange them in the baking dish a few hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. This can save time and allow the flavors to infuse into the apples.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, serve each baked apple in a shallow bowl or on a dessert plate with a generous amount of the syrupy liquid from the baking dish. Garnish with a mint leaf or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of sophistication.

Pairing Recommendations

Baked Apples with Amaretto pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For a non-alcoholic option, a warm spiced apple cider complements the flavors of the dessert beautifully. If you prefer something stronger, a dessert wine or a glass of Amaretto on the rocks can enhance the almond notes.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover baked apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Baked Apples with Amaretto, without ice cream or whipped cream, contains approximately 200-250 calories. The majority of these calories come from the carbohydrates in the apples and sugar.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Baked Apples with Amaretto contains approximately 45-55 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the natural sugars in the apples and the added brown sugar. The exact carbohydrate content can vary based on the size of the apples and the amount of sugar used.

Fats

This dessert is relatively low in fat, with most servings containing less than 5 grams of fat. The small amount of fat present comes primarily from the optional addition of ice cream or whipped cream.

Proteins

Baked Apples with Amaretto are not a significant source of protein, containing only about 1-2 grams per serving. The primary focus of this dish is its carbohydrate content.

Vitamins and minerals

Apples are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and small amounts of calcium and iron. Baking the apples preserves most of these nutrients, making this dessert not only delicious but also somewhat nutritious.

Alergens

The main allergen to be aware of in this recipe is the Amaretto liqueur, which, despite its almond flavor, is typically nut-free but may contain traces of nuts depending on the brand. Always check the label if you have nut allergies. Additionally, if serving with ice cream or whipped cream, be mindful of dairy allergies.

Summary

Baked Apples with Amaretto is a dessert that offers a good balance of sweetness and warmth, with a moderate calorie count. It provides some nutritional benefits thanks to the apples, but it's best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a health food.

Summary

Baked Apples with Amaretto is a simple yet elegant dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the rich flavor of Amaretto liqueur. This dish is perfect for any occasion and offers a comforting, warm treat that's sure to satisfy. With tips on preparation, serving suggestions, and variations, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste and make it a staple in your dessert repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a cold winter day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As soon as I came across the page for Baked Apples with Amaretto, I knew I had to try it.

The recipe was simple yet elegant, calling for just a few ingredients that I already had in my pantry. Apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, butter, and of course, a generous splash of Amaretto liqueur. The combination sounded divine, and I could practically taste the warm, sweet apples melting in my mouth.

I set about making the dish that very afternoon, following the instructions carefully and adding a few of my own touches along the way. As the apples baked in the oven, the scent of cinnamon and Amaretto filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the timer finally went off, I pulled the apples out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before taking my first bite. The texture was soft and tender, the flavors rich and decadent. It was like a taste of heaven in every bite.

From that moment on, Baked Apples with Amaretto became a regular staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and even just for myself on quiet evenings at home. Each time, it brought smiles to the faces of those who tasted it, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had mastered such a delicious recipe.

Over the years, I continued to refine and perfect the dish, experimenting with different types of apples, varying the amount of Amaretto, and even adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts for extra crunch. Each time, the result was a delightful dessert that never failed to impress.

As I shared the recipe with friends and family, they too fell in love with the simplicity and elegance of Baked Apples with Amaretto. They would often request it for special occasions, knowing that it would always be a crowd-pleaser.

One day, a friend asked me where I had learned to make such a delicious dish. I smiled and told her the truth - that the recipe had come to me in a moment of inspiration, straight from the pages of my grandmother's old cookbook.

I realized then that the recipe for Baked Apples with Amaretto was not just a dish to be enjoyed, but a connection to the past. It was a way for me to honor my grandmother and the generations of women who had come before me, passing down their knowledge and love of cooking.

And so, every time I make Baked Apples with Amaretto, I do so with a sense of gratitude and joy, knowing that I am carrying on a tradition that is as old as time itself. And as I take that first sweet bite, I am reminded of the love and legacy that has been woven into every delicious mouthful.