baked sliced apples recipe
The Best baked sliced apples recipe
I have been making baked sliced apples for my family for years now, and it is one of those recipes that just works every single time. My kids love it because it tastes like apple pie filling but without all the fuss of making a crust. I love it because it is simple, healthy, and fills the house with the most amazing cinnamon and apple smell. It is perfect for a quick dessert on a weeknight or for a holiday gathering when you want something homemade but not too heavy.
This recipe is basically just apples sliced up, tossed with a little sugar and cinnamon, and baked until they are soft and caramelized. The apples get tender and release their natural juices, which mix with the sugar to create a syrupy sauce. It is warm, comforting, and feels like a hug in a bowl. You can eat it on its own, spoon it over ice cream, or even use it as a topping for pancakes or oatmeal.
The best part is that it is naturally gluten free and dairy free if you skip the butter, so it works for a lot of different diets. The key to this dish is choosing the right apples. You want ones that hold their shape when baked, like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. If you use soft apples like McIntosh, they will turn into applesauce.
I always peel my apples because the peels can get tough in the oven, but some people leave them on for extra fiber. The baking time is short, about 25 to 30 minutes, and you want the apples to be fork tender but not mushy. I like to check them at 20 minutes and then decide if they need more time. Another thing I love about this recipe is how versatile it is.
You can add raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts for extra texture. Sometimes I add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavor, or a little maple syrup instead of brown sugar. It is also a great way to use up apples that are starting to get a little soft. I have made this for Thanksgiving instead of a full pie, and everyone raved about it.
It is just a no stress, delicious recipe that makes you feel good about what you are eating.
Baked Sliced Apples
A simple and healthy dessert made with fresh apples, cinnamon, and a touch of sugar. These baked sliced apples are tender, sweet, and perfect on their own or with ice cream.
🥘Ingredients
For the Apples
👨🍳Directions
🔧Equipment
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Baked Sliced Apples Works
This baked sliced apples recipe is always a good idea because it is simple, healthy, and feels special without a lot of work. I make it for family dinners, holiday meals, and even just for a cozy night in.
It works well for any occasion because you can dress it up with ice cream or keep it simple on its own. To store leftovers, let the apples cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days.
To reheat, you can microwave them for about 30 seconds or warm them in a 350 degree oven for 10 minutes. I like to serve them warm over Greek yogurt for breakfast or as a topping for oatmeal.
They also make a great filling for crepes or a simple topping for pound cake. No matter how you serve them, these baked apples are a crowd pleaser.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Sliced Apples
1. Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, but firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best because they hold their shape during baking. Soft apples like McIntosh or Red Delicious will turn mushy and may turn into applesauce. If you want a softer texture, you can use a mix of firm and soft apples.
2. Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is optional. If you leave the peels on, the apples will have more fiber and a slightly chewier texture. However, the peels can become tough and chewy after baking, so I recommend peeling them if you want a softer, more dessert like result. For a rustic look, you can leave them on.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apples up to a day in advance. Simply slice and toss them with lemon juice, sugar, and spices, then store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you are ready to bake, just transfer them to a baking dish, add the butter, and bake as directed. You may need to add 5 extra minutes to the baking time if the apples are cold.
4. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave them for 30 to 45 seconds or warm them in a 350 degree oven for about 10 minutes. They also taste great cold straight from the fridge.
5. Can I add other fruits or nuts to this recipe?
Absolutely. You can add raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture and flavor. Just toss them in with the apples before baking. If you add dried fruit, it will plump up and become soft. If you add nuts, they will toast slightly and add a nice crunch.
