Baked pear with walnut and amaretto

The perfect dessert for apple season: Baked Apples with Nuts and Amaretto

Who doesn't love the aroma of baked apples, combined with crunchy nuts and a splash of amaretto? This recipe for baked apples with nuts and amaretto is not only a delicious option but also a quick and simple dessert to prepare that blends tradition with a touch of modern elegance. Whether you serve them at a dinner with friends or simply to treat yourself, these baked apples are a perfect choice!

Total preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 4 large apples (preferably varieties like Golden or Granny Smith, which bake beautifully)
- 4 teaspoons of sugar (you can adjust the amount depending on the sweetness of the apples)
- 50 g of walnut meat (either chopped or ground, depending on your preference)
- 80 ml of amaretto (a sweet liqueur with an almond flavor)
- For decoration: whipped cream, chocolate flakes, or melted chocolate

Recipe history:

Baked apples are a dessert that has transcended generations, being a popular choice in many cultures. It is said that they were prepared as far back as medieval times when housewives used their skills to turn seasonal fruits into warm and comforting delights. The combination of apples with nuts is a tradition that has been appreciated for the crunchy texture that the walnut meat provides, contrasting with the juicy sweetness of baked apples.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the apples:
Start by washing the apples well under a stream of cold water. Look how the apple shines and is ready to be baked! Use a sharp knife or a special corer to remove the core and seeds. Be careful not to damage the structure of the apples, as they need to remain intact to be filled.

2. Filling mixture:
Let the apples drain a bit while you prepare the filling. Place the walnut meat in a bowl and chop it into small pieces. Add the 4 teaspoons of sugar and, if you like, sprinkle a little cinnamon for added flavor. Mix well so that the sugar is evenly incorporated.

3. Filling the apples:
Using a small filling tool or a spoon, fill each apple with the walnut and sugar mixture. Make sure to fill them well so that every bite is full of flavor! After filling, generously drizzle them with half of the amaretto, which will add a wonderful taste and unmistakable aroma.

4. Baking:
Place the apples in a baking dish and put them in the preheated oven at 180°C (medium heat). Let them bake for about 20 minutes. Check them after 15 minutes; when a toothpick easily pierces the flesh of the apple, you know they are ready! Don't leave them too long, as you don't want them to become too soft.

5. Finishing and serving:
Once the apples are baked, take them out of the oven and drizzle the remaining amaretto over them. This step will intensify the flavor! You can decorate them as you like: fluffy whipped cream, chocolate flakes, or even melted chocolate for a decadent look.

Helpful tips:

- Apple selection: Choose firmer apples that bake evenly. Tart varieties like Granny Smith add a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the filling.
- Variations: You can experiment with other types of nuts, such as almonds or pecans. Also, replace amaretto with another flavored liqueur, such as rum or coffee liqueur, for a different taste.
- Finding balance: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or add a note of acidity by drizzling the apples with lemon juice before filling them.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can the apples be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the apples and the filling mixture a few hours ahead. You can leave them in the fridge, and when you're ready to bake, all you have to do is fill them and put them in the oven.

- How can I store leftovers?
If there are any apples left, you can keep them in a closed container in the fridge for 2-3 days. They will be just as delicious and cold!

Ideal combinations:

This dessert pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce. Additionally, a sweet white wine or warm cider are excellent choices to accompany the baked apples.

Enjoy every bite and let yourself be carried away by the flavors of this simple yet refined dessert that will turn every meal into a celebration of taste! Savor it with your loved ones, for often, the most beautiful memories are those created around the table.