Baked apples

Caramelized Apples with Sour Cherries – a Delicious and Simple Recipe

If you are looking for a quick and tasty dessert, I invite you to discover the recipe for caramelized apples with sour cherries. This perfect combination of sweet and tart fruits will delight your taste buds and fill your home with inviting aromas. Moreover, it is a recipe that has a beautiful story and traditions that date back in time, being appreciated in many cultures for how it transforms a simple ingredient into something special.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 8 large apples (choose sweet and aromatic apples, such as Golden Delicious or Gala)
- 6 tablespoons of sugar (preferably brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 4 tablespoons of margarine (you can also use butter for a richer taste)
- 200 g of sour cherries from compote (or any other preferred fruit, such as cherries or peaches)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the apples: Start by washing the apples well under a stream of cold water. Use a sharp knife to peel them, being careful not to remove too much of the fruit's pulp. Then, using an apple corer or a spoon, remove the core of the apples, taking out the seeds. Make sure you have enough space to add the filling.

2. Filling the apples: Drain the sour cherries from the compote and ensure they are pitted. If using other fruits, cut them into small cubes. Fill the center of each apple with the prepared sour cherries, being careful not to overcrowd them. Place the filled apples on a plate.

3. Caramelizing the sugar: In an oven-safe dish, add the 6 tablespoons of sugar. Place the dish over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar melts and becomes caramelized. Be careful not to burn it, as caramel can become bitter. When it turns a golden hue, remove the dish from the heat.

4. Preparing for the oven: Lightly moisten the sides of the dish with the caramelized sugar, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Arrange the caramelized apples in the dish, leaving a little space between them. Add a tablespoon of margarine (or butter) between each apple to enhance the flavor and ensure juiciness.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and bake the apples for 30-35 minutes, until they become soft and lightly browned on the surface. You can check if they are done by inserting a fork into an apple – it should go in easily.

6. Serving: Once the apples are baked, let them cool slightly before serving. You can pair them with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for an extra touch of flavor. This combination will bring a contrast of textures and flavors, ideal for an unforgettable dessert.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the apples: Opt for apples that are not too soft to withstand baking. Firmer apples will maintain a pleasant texture and won't crumble.
- Fruit variation: Substitute sour cherries with other seasonal fruits, such as plums or peaches. Each variation will offer a different taste, transforming the dessert into a new experience each time.
- Caramelized sugar: If you don't have time to caramelize the sugar, you can simply sprinkle it over the apples before putting them in the oven. While it won't have the same depth of flavor, it will provide a pleasant sweetness.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, such as vitamin C, contributing to immune system health. Sour cherries add a boost of antioxidants, being beneficial for heart and joint health. This recipe is an excellent choice for a healthier dessert with a moderate sugar content.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen apples? It is recommended to use fresh apples for the best texture, but if you have frozen apples, you can thaw them and then use them, making sure to drain them well.
2. How can I make the recipe vegan? Replace margarine with vegan butter and sugar with a natural sweetener, such as maple syrup.
3. What drinks pair well with this dessert? A cup of black tea or fresh lemonade with mint flavor can perfectly complement the sweetness of the caramelized apples.

Caramelized apples with sour cherries are a dessert that not only delights your taste buds but also brings a touch of nostalgia and comfort in every bite. Try this simple recipe and let yourself be carried away by its sweet and savory aroma! Once you indulge your friends and family with this delicacy, you will surely receive praise and requests for another serving. Enjoy your meal!