Sticky baked apples

Sticky Baked Apples: A Sweet and Fragrant Delight

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 25 minutes
Total: 35 minutes
Servings: 2

Baked apples are a wonderful choice when you want to bring a touch of warmth and comfort to chilly days or impress someone special with a simple yet spectacular dessert. This sticky baked apple recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the flavor of raisins, the crunchy texture of nuts, and a hint of joy from marshmallows. It’s a quick dessert, perfect for family evenings as well as special occasions.

The Story of Baked Apples

Apples, a symbol of freshness and health, have been used in desserts for thousands of years. Baking apples intensifies their sweetness and aroma, transforming them into a warm and comforting treat. This simple recipe is a modern reinterpretation of a classic, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will enchant you every time you make it.

Ingredients

- 2 large apples, cored, skin intact, and halved
- 4 teaspoons raisins
- 100 g nuts, broken into small pieces
- 50 g marshmallows (preferably)

Helpful Tips for Ingredients

- Apples: Choose sweet apples like Gala or Fuji. They bake beautifully and have a strong flavor. Avoid apples that are too soft, as they won’t hold up well during baking.
- Raisins: You can use golden raisins for a milder flavor or dark raisins for a more intense taste. If desired, you can soak the raisins in warm water for 10 minutes to make them plumper.
- Nuts: Ensure the nuts are fresh for a perfect texture. You can substitute nuts with almonds or hazelnuts if preferred.
- Marshmallows: These add an element of surprise and sweetness. If you prefer, you can opt for melted chocolate instead of marshmallows for a more decadent taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 200°C. Make sure it is well heated before placing the apples inside for even baking.

2. Prepare the apples: Place the apple halves in a heat-resistant dish, cut side up. It’s important to use a dish that can withstand high temperatures, such as glass or ceramic.

3. Fill the apples: Put a teaspoon of raisins in each apple half. They will add not only sweetness but also a textural contrast to the juicy baked apples.

4. Add the nuts: Sprinkle the pieces of nuts evenly over the apples. This will add a delicious crunch and extra flavor.

5. Marshmallows: Place the marshmallows on top of the apples. They will melt during baking, creating a sticky and delicious sauce.

6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and let the apples bake for 20-25 minutes. Check at 20 minutes; the apples are done when they become soft but not mushy.

7. Serve: Carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. These baked apples are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream for a creamy contrast.

Variations and Tips

- Flavor additions: You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor boost. These spices pair wonderfully with apples and will transform your dessert into a memorable sensory experience.
- Topping variations: Instead of marshmallows, try sprinkling grated dark chocolate or coconut flakes for an exotic touch.

Nutritional Benefits

Apples are rich in fiber and vitamin C, making them a healthy and nutritious ingredient. Raisins bring antioxidants and quick energy, while nuts provide healthy fats. This dessert is a perfect choice for indulging your taste buds without sacrificing a balanced lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can experiment with pears or peaches. Just make sure they are firm enough to withstand baking.
- How can I store baked apples? It’s recommended to consume them immediately, but they can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 1-2 days.

Delicious Combinations

These baked apples pair perfectly with a cup of herbal tea or a glass of sweet wine. You can also enjoy this dessert alongside a serving of Greek yogurt for a creamy and refreshing contrast.

The sticky baked apple dessert is more than just a recipe – it’s an invitation to a culinary experience filled with warmth and joy. So, don’t hesitate to try this recipe, enjoy every bite, and share this delicacy with your loved ones!