Baked apples with biscuits

Baked Apples with Cookies - The Delight of Winter

Who doesn't love the enticing aroma of baked apples, especially when the cold winter weather encourages us to enjoy a warm and comforting snack? This baked apples with cookies recipe is simple, quick, and full of flavor, making it perfect for bringing a touch of warmth to chilly evenings.

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8 apples

Ingredients:
- 8 apples (preferably sweet and firm varieties)
- 100 g plain cookies (digestive or vanilla cookies)
- 10 tablespoons of honey (for natural sweetness and distinct flavor)

Necessary utensils:
- Knife
- Spoons
- Baking tray
- Baking paper
- Food processor or a cookie crusher
- Teaspoon

Step-by-step preparation guide:

1. Preparing the apples: Start by washing the apples under cold running water to remove any impurities. Then, using a knife, cut off the top of each apple (about 1-2 cm) and remove the core, being careful not to damage the skin. You can use a special corer or a small spoon for this.

2. Crushing the cookies: Place the cookies in the food processor and pulse until they become fine crumbs. If you don’t have a food processor, you can put them in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin or by hand. The result should be a uniform texture, but not too fine.

3. Mixing with honey: In a bowl, add the crushed cookies and 4 tablespoons of honey. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous composition that will fill the apples. Taste the mixture and, if you want a stronger sweetness, add an extra tablespoon of honey.

4. Filling the apples: Place the apples in the baking tray lined with baking paper. Use a teaspoon to fill each apple with the cookie and honey mixture, pressing gently to ensure the filling holds well.

5. Adding honey: After you have filled all the apples, add a teaspoon of honey in the center of each apple. This step will add extra sweetness and help caramelize the apples during baking.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Place the tray in the oven and let the apples bake for 30 minutes, or until they become soft and slightly caramelized. You will know they are ready when the skin turns lightly golden and a knife easily pierces the apple.

7. Serving: After baking, let the apples cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm, perhaps alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream, for a delicious contrast. Another option would be to sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for added flavor.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the apples: Opt for Granny Smith or Fuji apples, which are firmer and hold their shape during baking.
- Variations: You can add chopped nuts or raisins to the cookie mixture for an interesting texture. You can also try other types of sweeteners, such as maple syrup.
- Diverse flavors: If you like more intense flavors, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie mixture.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants, being beneficial for digestion and heart health. Honey, on the other hand, is natural and offers not only sweetness but also antimicrobial properties.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use apples from other varieties? Yes, but make sure they are sweet and firm for the best results.
- What can I do with the leftover cookies? You can use them to sprinkle on top of the dessert or serve them as is alongside tea or coffee.

Ideal pairings:
These baked apples pair wonderfully with a warm drink, such as apple tea or a spiced mulled wine. So, prepare yourself for an unforgettable winter evening, full of flavors and warmth, with this delicious baked apples with cookies recipe.

Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple family evening, these baked apples will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy every bite!