...beautiful and fragrant sea, ripe and eagerly devoured...

The perfect autumn dessert: Baked apples with nuts and chocolate

In every season, nature offers us delicious gifts, and apples are among the most beloved. Baked, fragrant, and full of flavors, this dessert of baked apples with nuts and chocolate takes us back to the days spent at grandma's house, where sweets were made with love and passion. Today, I invite you to discover how to prepare these delicious apples, perfect to be served with a glass of mulled wine on a chilly evening.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8

Your ingredients for a delicious dessert:

- 8 large apples (choose sweet apples like Gala or Fuji for a richer taste)
- 100 g ground nuts (pecans or hazelnuts are also an excellent choice)
- 100 g dark chocolate (choose chocolate with 70% cocoa content for a perfect flavor contrast)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or a vanilla pod for an authentic taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (adjustable based on preferences)
- 2-3 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, depending on the sweetness of the apples)
- A pinch of salt (to enhance the flavors)

Preparing these baked apples is simple and filled with joy, and each step will bring you closer to a perfect result.

Step 1: Preparing the apples
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. Wash the apples well under cold running water and remove the cores, leaving the bottoms intact so that the filling doesn't spill out. Using a small knife or a corer, remove the seeds and part of the apple's flesh, leaving a generous space for the filling.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
In a medium bowl, mix the ground nuts, chopped chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon, and brown sugar. If you want a sweeter taste, you can adjust the amount of sugar. This mixture will add a crunchy texture and a special flavor to your dessert.

Step 3: Filling the apples
Meanwhile, fill each apple with the nut and chocolate mixture, pressing gently to ensure the filling is well compacted. You can drizzle a little lemon juice over the apples to prevent oxidation and maintain their beautiful color.

Step 4: Baking
Place the filled apples in a baking dish, and for an extra flavor, you can add a little water or apple juice to the dish, which will create a pleasant steam during baking. Bake the apples in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until they become tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Serving
Once the apples are baked, let them cool slightly before serving. You can garnish them with a drizzle of maple syrup or a spoonful of Greek yogurt to add a creamy touch. Enjoy them with a glass of mulled wine or herbal tea to complete the autumn atmosphere.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with different types of nuts or even grains like oats for a crunchier filling.
- If you like spicy flavors, add a pinch of cloves or nutmeg to the filling.
- Baked apples can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants, beneficial for digestive health and the immune system. Nuts add protein and healthy fats, while dark chocolate is known for its positive effects on heart health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, pears or peaches are delicious options for this recipe.

2. How can I make the dessert healthier?
You can reduce the amount of sugar or use a natural sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup.

3. What drinks pair well with baked apples?
Mulled wine, warm apple cider, or a cup of herbal tea are excellent choices.

In conclusion, these baked apples stuffed with nuts and chocolate are not only a simple dessert to prepare but also a way to bring a piece of childhood charm to your plate. Whether you enjoy them alone or share them with loved ones, each bite will be an explosion of flavors and pleasure. Enjoy your meal!