Name: Cinnamon Baked Apples
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large firm apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith); 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional); 1/4 cup raisins or chopped nuts (optional); 2 tbsp unsalted butter, divided; 1/2 cup water or apple cider; Optional toppings: whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cinnamon Baked Apples recipe is easy, delicious, and perfect for using up seasonal apples. It’s a lighter dessert option that still satisfies your sweet tooth. With minimal prep and basic pantry ingredients, you can enjoy a cozy, homemade dessert in under an hour. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for different dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Large firm apples (like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith)
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg (optional)
Raisins or chopped nuts (optional)
Unsalted butter
Water or apple cider
Optional toppings: whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Wash and core the apples, removing the seeds and creating a cavity for the filling, but leaving the bottom intact.
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and optional raisins or nuts.
Stuff the mixture into the hollowed apples.
Place the apples in a baking dish. Add a small pat of butter on top of each apple.
Pour water or apple cider into the bottom of the dish to help steam the apples and prevent burning.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the apples are tender but not mushy.
Let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with optional toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Oat topping: Add a spoonful of oats and chopped nuts to the filling for a crumble-like texture.
Boozy apples: Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the filling for extra depth.
Maple flavor: Use maple syrup in place of some or all of the brown sugar.
Cranberry twist: Substitute raisins with dried cranberries for a tart contrast.
Vegan: Use plant-based butter or coconut oil in place of regular butter.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through. These also freeze well—wrap each baked apple tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

FAQs

What type of apples are best for baking?

Firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Jonagold, or Granny Smith hold their shape well and offer great flavor.

Can I make these apples ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and stuff the apples ahead of time. Refrigerate and bake when ready to serve.

Should I peel the apples?

No, leave the skins on to help the apples hold their shape during baking.

What can I use instead of brown sugar?

Coconut sugar, maple syrup, or honey can be used as natural alternatives.

Can I bake these without butter?

Yes, substitute with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine for a butter-free version.

Why add liquid to the baking dish?

Water or apple cider helps steam the apples, keeping them moist and preventing the bottoms from burning.

How do I know when the apples are done?

They should be fork-tender but not falling apart—typically after 35–40 minutes of baking.

Can I make these in the microwave?

Yes, microwave covered apples for 5–7 minutes, checking for tenderness. The texture won’t be quite the same as oven-baked.

Are baked apples healthy?

They’re a lighter dessert option, especially when made without excessive sugar or heavy toppings.

What can I serve with baked apples?

Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, yogurt, or a drizzle of caramel sauce all pair beautifully.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Baked Apples are a timeless, no-fuss dessert that delivers big comfort with simple ingredients. With their soft texture, sweet filling, and warm spices, they offer all the charm of a homemade treat without the hassle. Perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday tables, this cozy dessert is sure to become a seasonal favorite.