Baked apples

Baked Apples with Cinnamon Flavor - A Traditional Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 4 hours (in a slow cooker)
Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Looking for a simple and delicious recipe to impress family or friends? Baked apples are not only a quick dessert but also a recipe that brings a touch of nostalgia, evoking pleasant childhood memories. These baked apples are filled with a delicious combination of raisins, cinnamon, and a subtle hint of vanilla, all slowly cooked to intensify the flavors. Whether you enjoy them as a dessert or a snack, these baked apples will surely become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients for 4 servings:
- 4 apples (we recommend Granny Smith or Golden Delicious apples for their balanced taste)
- 4 cinnamon sticks
- 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- 100 g of butter (can be replaced with margarine for a vegan option)
- 100 g of raisins (choose golden raisins for a sweeter note)
- 1 vanilla pod (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract if you don’t have a pod)
- 100 ml of cognac or cherry (for a more intense flavor, but can be omitted)
- 4 tablespoons of brown sugar (buy quality sugar for a deeper taste)
- 3-4 cardamom pods (optional but recommended for an extra flavor)
- 3-4 allspice berries (optional for an exotic aroma)
- 50 ml of water
- 4 scoops of caramel or vanilla ice cream (for serving)
- 4 tablespoons of vanilla topping (for an attractive appearance)

Recipe history:
Baked apples are a traditional dessert that has its origins in family cooking, often prepared during the cold season. This recipe has evolved over time, with each region contributing its local flavors. Slow cooking the apples allows the natural sugars to caramelize, resulting in an exceptionally tasty final product.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the apples: Start by washing the apples well. Use a sharp knife to carefully core them, leaving about 1 cm intact at the base of each apple. This will help keep the filling inside during cooking.

2. Filling the apples: In a bowl, mix the raisins, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, cardamom pods, and allspice. If using a vanilla pod, split it open and scrape the seeds into the mixture. Add the melted butter (to give them a creamy texture) and, if desired, the cognac or cherry. Mix until the composition is homogeneous.

3. Fill the apples: Use a teaspoon to fill each apple with the prepared mixture. Make sure to fill them well but don’t overdo it, as they will expand during cooking.

4. Cooking the apples: Place the filled apples in the Crock slow cooker. Add the cinnamon sticks and water. Cover with the lid and let them cook on the low setting for about 4 hours. The flavors will combine, and the apples will become tender and delicious.

5. Serving: Once the apples are ready, serve them warm alongside a scoop of caramel or vanilla ice cream. Add a drizzle of vanilla topping for extra flavor. This brings a pleasant contrast between warm and cold, and the ice cream will melt slightly, enriching every bite.

Practical tips:
- Feel free to experiment with different types of apples. Each variety offers a different texture and taste.
- You can add chopped nuts (pecans or regular walnuts) to the filling for an extra crunch.
- If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can bake the apples in the oven at 180°C for about 30-40 minutes, covered with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Regular consumption of apples can support heart health and help with weight management. Despite the added sugar, this dessert offers a healthier alternative compared to other cakes or processed sweets.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned apples? We recommend fresh apples for a better texture, but in an emergency, canned apples can be used.
- How can I adapt this recipe for food allergies? You can omit the alcohol and replace the butter with coconut oil for a vegan option. Additionally, raisins can be replaced with other dried fruits, such as apricots.
- Can baked apples be frozen? Yes, but we recommend freezing them without the filling for a better texture upon thawing.

Delicious combinations:
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a sweet wine, a fragrant tea, or even a creamy cappuccino. If you want to add a festive touch, a warm chocolate sauce would make an excellent combination.

Possible variations:
- Substitute raisins with seasonal dried fruits, such as cranberries or dates, for a different flavor.
- Add some chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the filling for an extra texture and taste.

Baked apples are more than just a simple dessert; they are a culinary experience that delights the senses and brings joy in every bite. Don’t hesitate to prepare them and enjoy the moments spent with loved ones, savoring a dessert that blends tradition with innovation!