Apples in baskets

Delicious Baked Apples Recipe - Quick and Tasty Dessert

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Baked apples are an excellent choice for a quick, simple, and flavorful dessert. These caramelized apples are ideal for serving on a weekend evening or as a little indulgence after a long day. With a subtle hint of rum and butter, this dessert is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:
- 4 large apples (preferably varieties like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious, which have a crisp texture and balanced flavor)
- 50 g butter (for a rich taste, choose a good quality butter)
- 2-3 tablespoons brown sugar (for a more intense caramelization)
- 2 tablespoons rum (optional, but recommended for added flavor)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon (to prevent the apples from browning and to add a touch of acidity)
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional, but perfect to complement the flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the apples: Start by peeling the apples. This step is essential for achieving a smooth texture. Cut the apples into approximately 2 cm cubes. Make sure they are uniform for even cooking. Immediately drizzle them with lemon juice to prevent browning and keep the fresh color.

2. Sautéing the apples: In a deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Choose a skillet that distributes heat evenly so the apples cook well. Once the butter is completely melted and starts to foam, add the apple cubes to the skillet. Gently stir them with a wooden spatula to coat them evenly with the melted butter.

3. Adding the sugar: Sprinkle the brown sugar over the apples. This will help form a delicious caramelized crust. Continue to stir so that the sugar dissolves and integrates well into the mixture.

4. Flavoring with rum: After about 5 minutes of cooking, when the apples start to soften slightly, add the rum. This will bring a depth of flavor that will transform this simple dessert into a true delicacy. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are completely soft but not turning into mush.

5. Finishing the dish: If desired, add a pinch of cinnamon to intensify the flavor. Mix well and let it cook for a few more minutes for the flavors to combine.

Serving and variations: Baked apples can be served warm, plain, or alongside vanilla ice cream or creamy yogurt. You can also add roasted nuts for a crunchy contrast or even a caramel sauce for a decadent experience.

Practical tips: Choose fresh, firm apples for the best results. If you don’t have rum, you can use another flavored alcohol, such as brandy or a fruit liqueur. This dessert can also be made with pears, offering a delicious and interesting alternative.

Enjoy this simple and quick baked apple recipe, which will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring a touch of warmth to chilly days!