Pin This This dish features tender baked apples filled with a fragrant blend of maple syrup, chopped nuts, dried fruit, and warming spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The apples are hollowed and stuffed, then baked until soft but intact, creating a comforting treat perfect for cool evenings. Optional toppings like vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt add richness and balance.
Simple preparation and gentle baking allow the natural sweetness and spice flavors to meld beautifully, offering a gluten-free and vegetarian delight. Variations include nut substitutions and plant-based butter for dietary preferences, making this dish adaptable and satisfying.
The first time I baked these maple kissed cardamom apples I remember the cozy aroma filling my kitchen and the warmth it brought on a chilly autumn evening. It quickly became a comfort dessert that feels like a gentle hug after a long day.
I recall the time unexpected guests dropped by and these baked apples saved the day—a simple yet elegant treat that always impresses without fuss.
Ingredients
- Apples: I reach for medium baking apples like Honeycrisp or Gala because they hold their shape well and have the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness
- Maple syrup: Pure maple syrup adds natural sweetness and depth, far better than sugar alone
- Chopped nuts: Walnuts or pecans give a satisfying crunch, but sunflower seeds work wonderfully for a nut-free twist
- Dried fruit: Raisins or dried cranberries add bursts of flavor that complement the spices perfectly
- Butter: Using unsalted butter cut into small cubes helps create a golden, rich topping as it melts
- Spices: Cardamom brings a unique floral warmth, while cinnamon and nutmeg round out the cozy flavor profile
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and wash then core each apple carefully, keeping the bottom intact so the filling stays nestled inside.
- Mix the Filling:
- In a small bowl combine the maple syrup, nuts, dried fruit, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. The mix should smell fragrant and inviting.
- Stuff the Apples:
- Arrange the apples upright in a baking dish and fill their centers with the sweet, spiced mixture.
- Add Butter and Water:
- Top each apple with a few butter cubes, then pour 1/2 cup water into the bottom of the dish to keep everything moist and prevent sticking as it bakes.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 35 minutes, watching for tender apples that still keep their shape, sending those cozy smells through your kitchen.
- Serve Warm:
- Enjoy the apples just as they are or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
Pin This This dish became more than just a dessert one cold night when it gathered family around the table, warming us beyond just the belly but our hearts as well.
Keeping It Fresh
If you want to prepare ahead, you can core and stuff the apples the night before, then refrigerate and bake them fresh when you’re ready for a comforting treat.
When You're Missing Something
Out of nuts? No worries. Substituting sunflower seeds or skipping them keeps the texture inviting and allergy friendly without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
Try topping with vanilla ice cream or your favorite creamy yogurt for a perfect balance of warm and cool. A drizzle of extra maple syrup doesn’t hurt either.
- Always have extra cinnamon on hand for final dusting—it smells amazing
- Don’t forget to save a spoon for the syrupy filling at the bottom—it's a hidden gem
- Serve immediately for best texture but leftovers reheat beautifully
Pin This Thanks for sharing this cozy kitchen moment with me—may your baked apples bring warmth and smiles all season long.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of apples work best?
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Medium baking apples like Honeycrisp or Gala are ideal, as they hold shape well and develop tender flesh when baked.
- → Can I use different nuts or seeds?
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Yes, walnuts or pecans give a rich crunch, but sunflower seeds can replace nuts for a nut-free version.
- → How do the spices impact flavor?
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Cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg bring warm, aromatic notes that enhance the natural sweetness of the apples and maple syrup.
- → Is there a way to make this dairy-free?
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Substitute unsalted butter with plant-based alternatives, and omit or replace optional toppings with dairy-free options.
- → What liquids help prevent sticking during baking?
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Pouring water into the baking dish’s base ensures even cooking and prevents the apples from sticking or drying out.
- → What are some serving suggestions?
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Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or alongside sweet dessert wine or chai tea for added comfort.
