Baked apples

The perfect dessert for those moments when you crave something sweet but want to maintain a balanced diet? I invite you to discover the delicious baked apple recipe! This simple yet flavorful dessert will fill your home with a comforting warmth and evoke memories of childhood. Baked apples are more than just a simple sweet treat; they are an explosion of sweetness and tartness, with a soft texture and an inviting aroma.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Servings: 4-8, depending on the size of the apples

Ingredients:
- 8 apples (preferably red, green, yellow, or purple – choose a variety you like)
- 1-2 tablespoons of honey or sugar (optional, depending on how sweet the apples are)
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (for an extra flavor boost)
- 1-2 tablespoons of chopped nuts (optional, for texture)
- Zest of one lemon (for a splash of freshness)
- A little water (to prevent the apples from sticking to the pot)

A brief story about baked apples:
Baked apples have been prepared for generations, being a simple and tasty dessert loved by both children and adults. They evoke memories of autumn when apples are in full season, and their aroma perfectly blends with warm spices. Whether served as a dessert at family meals or as a quick snack, baked apples have always been a wise choice.

Step by step to a perfect sweet treat:

1. Preparing the apples: Start by washing the apples well under a stream of cold water. Choose apples with intact stems; they not only look nice but also make it easier to remove them from the pot after baking. Cut a small cap off the top of each apple to allow steam to escape during baking. If you prefer, you can core the apples using a special knife or a spoon.

2. Placing in the pot: Arrange the apples stem side up in an oven-safe pot. Make sure the pot is deep enough to allow the apples to bake evenly. Add a little water to the bottom of the pot; this step will help maintain adequate moisture and prevent the apples from sticking to the bottom.

3. Seasoning: Depending on your preferences, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of honey or sugar inside each apple. Sprinkle cinnamon over the apples to give them a warm and comforting aroma. If using nuts, you can add them now for a crunchy texture. The lemon zest also adds a fresh note that balances the sweetness of the apples.

4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Once the temperature is right, place the pot with the apples in the preheated oven. Let them bake for 90 minutes until they become golden and tender. You will notice that the apples release their natural juice, creating a delicious syrup around them.

5. Serving: When the apples are ready, carefully remove them from the oven. You can serve them warm, directly from the pot, or let them cool slightly before enjoying. They are also wonderful cold, so feel free to save some for later.

Tips and useful advice:
- If you want to enhance the apple aroma, you can also add a few cloves or a splash of vanilla extract inside the apples.
- Baked apples can be served with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream, providing a delicious contrast between warm and cold.
- Experiment with different types of apples; each variety adds a unique note to your dessert. Tart apples, like green ones, provide a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of cinnamon.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Apples are rich in fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants. A serving of baked apples (about one medium apple) contains approximately 95 calories, making them a healthy and satisfying dessert. Additionally, eating apples can help improve digestive health and maintain a strong immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other fruits instead of apples? Absolutely! Peaches, plums, or pears are excellent alternatives.
- Can I make this recipe without sugar? Yes, you can skip the sugar and enjoy the natural sweetness of the apples.
- What is the best variety of apples for this recipe? Sweet apples, like red ones, are ideal, but a combination of sweet and tart apples can provide a complex flavor.

Ideal combinations:
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or a glass of freshly squeezed apple juice. You can also accompany it with a sweet wine for a special culinary experience.

In conclusion, baked apples are a dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also enhances your well-being. With every bite, you will enjoy a combination of flavors that will remind you of beautiful moments from childhood. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy this flavorful dessert! Enjoy your meal!