Save Tender baked apples filled with a wholesome oat and nut crumble, offering natural sweetness with less sugar. A comforting, healthier dessert perfect for cooler days.
I first made these baked apples for a cozy fall evening. Everyone loved how the filling turned golden and crunchy while the apples stayed perfectly tender.
Ingredients
- Apples: 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Braeburn), cored
- Crumble Topping: 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, 2 tbsp almond flour (or whole wheat flour), 2 tbsp light brown sugar or coconut sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, Pinch of salt, 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted, 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce
- Optional: 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries
Instructions
- Prep Oven and Apples:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wash and core the apples, creating a cavity for the filling while leaving the bottom intact.
- Prepare Crumble:
- In a medium bowl, combine oats, nuts, almond flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well. Add melted butter and applesauce to the mixture. Stir until the crumble is evenly moistened.
- Optional Ingredient:
- Stir in raisins or dried cranberries if desired.
- Fill Apples and Bake:
- Place apples upright in a baking dish. Fill each apple generously with the oat-nut crumble. Add 2-3 tablespoons of water to the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until apples are tender and topping is golden.
- Serve:
- Serve warm, plain or with a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Save This recipe became a family favorite after my kids asked for seconds at our weekend dinner. It's now a go-to treat for chilly evenings together.
Required Tools
Apple corer or paring knife, mixing bowl, baking dish, measuring cups and spoons, aluminum foil
Allergen Information
Contains nuts (walnuts or pecans) and dairy (butter). Can be made nut-free and dairy-free with substitutions. Always check ingredient labels.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 220, Total Fat: 9 g, Carbohydrates: 35 g, Protein: 3 g
Save Enjoy these baked apples fresh from the oven for a comforting finish to any meal. They're just as delicious for breakfast the next day!
Common recipe questions
- → What type of apples work best for this dish?
Firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn hold their shape well during baking and provide a balanced sweetness that complements the crumble.
- → Can I substitute the nuts in the crumble topping?
Yes, walnuts or pecans are best, but you can omit them or replace with seeds for a nut-free option without losing texture.
- → How do I prevent the apples from drying out while baking?
Adding a few tablespoons of water to the baking dish and covering the apples loosely with foil helps retain moisture and ensures tender results.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Substitute the butter with plant-based alternatives and use unsweetened applesauce to maintain moisture and flavor.
- → What are suggested serving options for this dessert?
Serve warm on its own, or add a dollop of Greek yogurt, vanilla yogurt, or a drizzle of maple syrup to enhance richness.