Baked Apples Stuffed with Oats - A Healthy and Delicious Dessert
Today we want to share with you a special post:
The Perfect Baked Apples Stuffed with Oats!
Looking for a simple, nutritious, and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion? Baked apples stuffed with oats and nuts are just what you need!
Not only are they easy to make, but they also offer a delightful combination of warm, sweet flavors and a crunchy texture that everyone will love.
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Plus, they’re packed with nutrients, making them a healthier alternative to traditional desserts.
In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the process of making baked apples stuffed with oats and nuts, share some useful tips, and explain why this dish should be a staple in your kitchen. So, let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love These Baked Apples
Baked apples stuffed with oats and nuts offer the perfect balance between indulgence and health. Here are a few reasons why you should give this recipe a try:
- Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen.
- Healthy Dessert: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats, this dessert is a guilt-free option.
- Versatile: You can customize the filling by adding your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or sweeteners.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it's a weeknight treat or a holiday dessert, baked apples are always a hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect baked apples:
- 4 large apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work great)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
- ¼ cup dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, or apricots, optional)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: A dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for serving
Step-by-Step Recipe for Baked Apples Stuffed with Oats and Nuts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the apples bake evenly and develop that soft, tender texture we’re looking for.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Core the apples: Use an apple corer or a small knife to remove the core of each apple, leaving about ½ inch at the bottom intact. This will create a hollow space for the filling. Be careful not to cut all the way through the bottom of the apple.
Peel the top: If you like, you can peel the top inch of the apples to help the filling brown and caramelize better while baking.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped nuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Then, add in the melted butter (or coconut oil) and honey (or maple syrup). Stir until the mixture is well-coated and clumps together slightly. If you’re using dried fruits, mix them in at this stage as well.
Step 4: Stuff the Apples
Now it’s time to stuff the apples! Spoon the oat and nut mixture into the hollowed-out apples, pressing the filling down gently to pack it in. Don’t overfill the apples, as the oats will expand slightly as they bake.
Step 5: Bake the Apples
Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and add about ¼ inch of water or apple juice to the bottom of the dish. This will help keep the apples moist as they bake. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are soft and the filling is golden and crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the apples are done baking, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. For an extra touch of indulgence, you can top them with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
The cool, creamy topping pairs beautifully with the warm, spiced apples.
Tips for the Best Baked Apples
To make sure your baked apples turn out perfect every time, here are some useful tips:
- Choose the right apples: Not all apples are created equal when it comes to baking. Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold up well in the oven without turning mushy.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup, or even omit it altogether. The natural sweetness of the apples will still shine through.
- Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to get creative with the filling. You can add a tablespoon of chia seeds for an extra boost of fiber or sprinkle some shredded coconut into the oat mixture for a tropical twist.
- Don’t skip the water or juice: Adding a bit of liquid to the baking dish ensures that the apples stay moist and don’t dry out during the baking process.
Why Baked Apples Are a Healthy Choice
Baked apples stuffed with oats and nuts aren’t just delicious—they’re also packed with nutrients. Here’s a breakdown of why this dessert is a healthy option:
- Apples: Rich in fiber and antioxidants, apples are great for digestion and help reduce inflammation. They’re also a good source of Vitamin C.
- Oats: Full of heart-healthy soluble fiber, oats can help lower cholesterol levels and keep you feeling full longer.
- Nuts: Walnuts, almonds, and pecans provide healthy fats, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. They’re known for supporting brain health and reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Both are natural sweeteners that offer some antioxidants and nutrients, unlike refined sugar.
Baked apples stuffed with oats and nuts are the perfect combination of sweet, crunchy, and nutritious. They’re an easy-to-make dessert that you can enjoy guilt-free.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy treat on a chilly evening or a healthy dessert to impress guests, this recipe is a must-try.
Give it a go, and don’t forget to share your results! Let us know how your baked apples turned out, and feel free to experiment with different fillings and toppings. Happy baking!
Enjoy this Easy video tutorial about Apple Baked
Source: Downshiftology
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