Baked Apple With Cinnamon and Walnuts

Introduction

Baked apples with cinnamon and walnuts are a delightful and healthy dessert option that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the warm, spicy flavor of cinnamon and the crunchy texture of walnuts. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for those who are health-conscious.

Ingredients

• 4 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter or coconut oil
• 1/4 cup water or apple juice

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the apples will bake evenly and develop a nice, tender texture.
2. Prepare the Apples: Wash the apples thoroughly. Using a corer or a small knife, remove the core from each apple, creating a hollow center. Be careful not to cut all the way through the bottom of the apple.
3. Mix the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, brown sugar or honey, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. This mixture will serve as the flavorful filling for the apples.
4. Stuff the Apples: Place the apples in a baking dish. Fill the hollow center of each apple with the walnut mixture, pressing it down gently to pack it in.
5. Add Butter and Liquid: Place a small piece of butter or coconut oil on top of the filling in each apple. Pour the water or apple juice into the bottom of the baking dish. This liquid will help steam the apples, keeping them moist during baking.
6. Bake the Apples: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork. The exact baking time may vary depending on the size and type of apples used.
7. Serve: Once baked, remove the apples from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla yogurt or a sprinkle of additional cinnamon on top.

Conclusion

Baked apples with cinnamon and walnuts are a simple yet satisfying dessert that can be enjoyed any time of the year. The combination of sweet, tart apples with the rich flavors of cinnamon and walnuts creates a comforting dish that is both nutritious and delicious. Whether you're looking for a healthy treat or a cozy dessert to share with family and friends, this recipe is sure to please.