Name: Stuffed Baked Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488398H55M22S
Total time: PT-488398H55M22S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala); 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup brown sugar or maple syrup; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans; 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries; 2 tbsp melted butter; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup water or apple cider (for baking)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also endlessly customizable. You’ll love the tender apples baked to perfection and stuffed with a flavorful blend of oats, nuts, spices, and natural sweeteners. It’s a healthy-ish dessert that tastes indulgent but can fit into a balanced diet. Plus, they’re perfect for entertaining and can even be prepped ahead of time.

Ingredients

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

Medium apples (such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala)
Rolled oats
Brown sugar or maple syrup
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Chopped walnuts or pecans
Raisins or dried cranberries
Butter
Vanilla extract
Water or apple cider (for baking)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Wash and core the apples, leaving the bottom intact to hold the filling.
In a bowl, combine oats, brown sugar (or maple syrup), cinnamon, nutmeg, nuts, and dried fruit.
Mix in melted butter and vanilla extract until the mixture resembles a loose crumble.
Stuff the filling mixture into the cored apples, packing it in gently.
Place the apples in a baking dish and pour water or apple cider into the bottom to keep them moist.
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until apples are tender and the filling is golden.
Let cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, optionally with ice cream or yogurt.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 40–45 minutes
Total time: 55–60 minutes

Variations

Caramel-Stuffed: Add a soft caramel candy or a spoonful of caramel sauce into the apple before baking.
Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely.
Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats.
Vegan: Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use maple syrup instead of honey or brown sugar.
Savory Twist: Add a bit of goat cheese and herbs for a unique appetizer-style version.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

What type of apples works best for baking?

Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn work well because they hold their shape when baked.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes, you can prep and stuff the apples ahead of time, refrigerate them, and bake when ready.

What can I use instead of oats?

You can use crushed granola, breadcrumbs, or chopped nuts as a base for the filling.

How do I keep apples from bursting while baking?

Don’t overcore the apples and avoid overfilling. Baking with a bit of liquid helps them cook gently.

Is it necessary to peel the apples?

No, the peel helps the apple maintain its shape and adds a nice texture, but you can peel them if you prefer.

Can I freeze stuffed baked apples?

It’s not recommended, as the texture of the apples may become mushy after freezing and reheating.

What’s the best way to serve these?

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

Can I use a sugar substitute?

Yes, you can use alternatives like stevia, monk fruit sweetener, or coconut sugar based on your preference.

How do I know when the apples are done?

They should be fork-tender but not mushy. The filling should be golden and slightly crisp on top.

Can I add fresh fruit to the filling?

Yes, finely chopped fresh pears or apples can be mixed into the filling for extra texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Stuffed Baked Apples are the ultimate comfort dessert—easy, delicious, and full of warm spice. Whether you’re making them for a cozy night in or a festive holiday table, these apples are sure to impress with their wholesome ingredients and irresistible flavor. Enjoy them warm and savor every bite of this timeless treat.