Making healthy food look good.
Introduction
There’s nothing more comforting than a warm baked apple. Imagine a red apple, its skin blistered and sweet, gently split open to reveal a filling of toasted walnuts, fragrant cinnamon, and a drizzle of golden honey. As you slice into it, steam rises. The apple’s flesh is soft and silky. Its juices mingle with melted honey. Each bite offers a cozy blend of sweet, nutty, and spicy flavors.
This Baked Apple with Cinnamon & Walnuts recipe transforms a simple fruit into an elegant dessert or snack. It’s naturally gluten‑free, vegetarian, and surprisingly easy to make. You only need a handful of pantry staples, a bit of prep, and under 30 minutes in the oven. Serve it alone or with a scoop of vanilla yogurt or ice cream for an extra treat.
Whether you crave a healthy dessert after dinner or a special breakfast alongside oatmeal, this dish delivers warmth and flavor. It’s perfect for crisp autumn evenings, holiday gatherings, or any time you need a little culinary hug. Let’s explore why this humble baked apple deserves a spot in your recipe box.
Ingredient Benefits
Red Apples
- Fiber & Satiety: A medium apple packs about 4 g of fiber, which aids digestion and promotes fullness.
- Antioxidants: Apples contain quercetin and vitamin C, which help fight inflammation and support immunity.
Healthline – 10 Impressive Health Benefits of Apples
Cinnamon
- Blood Sugar Control: Studies show cinnamon may lower blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity.
- Anti‑Inflammatory: Rich in cinnamaldehyde, cinnamon offers antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory benefits.
WebMD – Cinnamon: Uses, Side Effects, and More
Walnuts
- Heart‑Healthy Fats: High in omega‑3 fatty acids, walnuts support cardiovascular health.
- Protein & Minerals: Provide protein, magnesium, and phosphorus for bone and muscle health.
University of California – 4 health benefits of walnuts and how much you should eat
Honey
- Natural Sweetener: Offers trace antioxidants and antimicrobial properties.
- Energy Boost: Quick‑release carbohydrates give a gentle energy lift.
Healthline – 7 Unique Health Benefits of Honey
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 4 medium red apples (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji)
- ½ cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 2 Tbsp honey, plus extra for drizzling
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon (divided)
- 1 Tbsp unsalted butter or coconut oil, melted
- Pinch of salt
Equipment Needed
- Baking dish (8×8″ or similar)
- Sharp knife to core apples
- Small bowl for mixing filling
- Measuring spoons
- Spoon for stuffing apples
- Pastry brush (optional, for butter)
Step‑by‑Step Recipe
- Preheat & Prep Apples (5 min):
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Core each apple from the top, leaving the base intact.
- Make the Filling (3 min):
- In a small bowl, mix chopped walnuts, 1 Tbsp honey, and 1 tsp cinnamon.
- Stir until nuts are well coated.
- Stuff & Season Apples (5 min):
- Place apples in a greased baking dish.
- Brush or drizzle melted butter (or oil) on each apple’s exterior.
- Spoon the walnut‑honey mix into the core cavity, packing gently.
- Bake (20 min):
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 tsp cinnamon and a pinch of salt over the apples.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until apples are tender when pierced.
- Finish & Serve (2 min):
- Remove from oven and let cool 2 minutes.
- Drizzle with extra honey and garnish with whole walnuts or a sprig of mint.
Nutritional Information (per apple)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 20 mg
Tips for Perfect Baked Apples
- Choose Firm Apples: Use varieties that hold shape when baked, like Honeycrisp or Fuji.
- Even Filling: Pack the walnut mix tightly to prevent burning on top.
- Prevent Sogginess: Pour ¼ cup water into the baking dish before baking to keep apples moist.
- Spice Variations: Swap half the cinnamon for nutmeg or cardamom for a warm twist.
Delicious Variations
- Oat‑Crumble Topping: Mix ¼ cup oats, 1 Tbsp flour, 1 Tbsp butter, and 1 Tbsp brown sugar. Sprinkle on top before baking.
- Maple‑Pecan Twist: Replace honey with maple syrup and walnuts with pecans.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle over warm apples for a decadent touch.
- Cream Cheese Filling: Stir 2 Tbsp softened cream cheese into the walnut mix for extra creaminess.
Make‑Ahead & Storage
- Prep Ahead: Core apples and mix filling. Store separately in the fridge up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
- Leftovers: Store baked apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Warm in the oven or microwave.
- Freezing: Cool completely, wrap individually in foil, and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
How to Serve & Pair
- Breakfast Upgrade: Serve alongside Greek yogurt and granola for a hearty start.
- Dessert Style: Top with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream.
- Beverage Pairings: A spiced chai latte, hot cider, or robust black tea complements the spices.
- Plating Idea: Serve in individual ramekins with a sprinkle of fresh mint for an elegant touch.
FAQs About Baked Apples
- Can I use pre‑made apple rings?
No, whole apples roast best. Rings may overcook and become mushy. - Are baked apples vegan?
Use coconut oil instead of butter and maple syrup for honey to keep it vegan. - Why are my apples still firm?
Bake an extra 5–10 minutes or increase oven temp to 400°F. - Can I add dried fruit?
Yes—soak raisins or chopped dates in warm water for 5 minutes, drain, and mix into filling. - How do I prevent apples from splitting?
Core carefully without cutting through the bottom. Over‑coring can cause splitting.
Ready to Try?
Bake these stuffed apples tonight and indulge in warm, spiced comfort. Snap a photo, share with #BakedAppleDelight, and tag us to be featured!