Maple-baked Apples
Maple-baked Apples Recipe
Introduction
Maple-baked apples are a delicious and comforting dessert that is perfect for the fall season. The combination of sweet maple syrup, crunchy granola, and tender apples creates a warm and satisfying treat that is sure to please your taste buds.
History
Baked apples have been a popular dessert for centuries, with variations of the dish appearing in cookbooks dating back to the 17th century. The addition of maple syrup to the recipe adds a unique and delicious twist to this classic dish.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Carefully remove the cores from the apples using an apple corer, a vegetable peeler, or a small paring knife. Make sure to remove all seeds and tough parts.
- Combine the remaining ingredients and fill each apple.
- Place the stuffed apples in a shallow baking dish and add about 0.25 inch of water.
- Bake, uncovered, in a 375°F (191°C) oven for 40 minutes.
- Serve hot or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Variations
- Try using different types of nuts, such as pecans or almonds, in place of the walnuts.
- Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or cloves for a warm and spicy flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to remove all seeds and tough parts from the apples before stuffing them.
- Use a shallow baking dish to ensure that the apples cook evenly.
- Serve the baked apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious and indulgent treat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the maple-baked apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat.
Cooking Techniques
Baking
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute the granola with crushed graham crackers or oats.
- Honey or agave syrup can be used in place of maple syrup.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the stuffed apples ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the maple-baked apples in individual ramekins for a beautiful and elegant presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair maple-baked apples with a glass of warm apple cider or a cup of hot tea for a cozy and comforting dessert.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover maple-baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of maple-baked apples contains approximately 200 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of maple-baked apples contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of maple-baked apples contains approximately 8 grams of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of maple-baked apples contains approximately 2 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Maple-baked apples are a good source of vitamin C and fiber.
Alergens
This recipe contains nuts (walnuts) and may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.
Summary
Maple-baked apples are a delicious and nutritious dessert option that is relatively low in calories and high in fiber.
Summary
Maple-baked apples are a delicious and comforting dessert that is perfect for the fall season. With a sweet and crunchy filling, these baked apples are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
How did I get this recipe?
I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Maple-Baked Apples. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were turning shades of red and gold, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of apples and cinnamon. I was visiting my dear friend Margaret, who lived on a small farm just outside of town. Margaret was known for her delicious home-cooked meals, and I always looked forward to trying out new recipes with her.
On that particular day, Margaret invited me into her cozy kitchen and handed me a worn and stained recipe card. "This is a family favorite," she said with a twinkle in her eye. "Maple-Baked Apples." As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could feel my mouth watering in anticipation.
Margaret explained that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The combination of sweet maple syrup, tangy lemon juice, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg sounded like a winning combination. I couldn't wait to try it out for myself.
With Margaret's guidance, I set to work peeling and coring the apples, carefully arranging them in a baking dish. I drizzled them with the maple syrup and lemon juice, sprinkled on the spices, and popped them in the oven to bake. As they cooked, the aroma that filled the kitchen was absolutely heavenly.
When the apples were tender and golden brown, I couldn't resist taking a bite right then and there. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the sweetness of the maple syrup, the tartness of the lemon, and the warmth of the spices all melding together perfectly. I knew then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.
I thanked Margaret profusely for sharing her family recipe with me, and she simply smiled and said, "Recipes are meant to be shared, my dear. It's how we keep our traditions alive." Those words stuck with me, and I made a promise to myself to pass down this recipe to my own grandchildren someday.
Over the years, I have made Maple-Baked Apples countless times, for family gatherings, holidays, and just for a cozy night in by the fire. Each time I make them, I think of Margaret and her warm kitchen, and I am grateful for the memories we shared.
I have also added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different apple varieties, adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, or even incorporating some chopped nuts for extra crunch. But no matter how I choose to serve them, the delicious aroma and taste of these Maple-Baked Apples always bring me back to that crisp autumn day with Margaret.
As I sit here writing out this recipe for Maple-Baked Apples, I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia and gratitude. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my loved ones, to create lasting memories, and to carry on cherished traditions. And as I pass this recipe on to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will find as much joy and comfort in making it as I have.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. And remember, as Margaret once told me, recipes are meant to be shared. So, share this one with someone you love, and let the sweet, warm flavors of Maple-Baked Apples fill your home with love and memories. Enjoy!
Categories
| Apple Recipes | Breakfast Cereal Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Dessert Recipes | Granola Recipes | Halloween Recipes | Maple Syrup Recipes | Walnut Recipes |