Easy Granola Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe

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As autumn arrives, my kitchen becomes a cozy spot for comfort foods. Today, I'm excited to share a recipe combining fall flavors with indulgence: granola-stuffed baked apples. This easy recipe is as vibrant as a honey-crisp apple. It's not just a snack but a mix of wholesome and heavenly.

The joy of making this dish is almost as great as eating it.

The joy of making this dish is almost as great as eating it. Scooping out the apple flesh, mixing it with homemade granola, and baking it is a treat. Inspired by Paula Deen, this recipe uses halved apples filled with a sweet granola mix. For crunch, it's spiced with brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and nuts.

This dish is simple yet full of textures and flavors.

This dish is simple yet full of textures and flavors. Each bite of the granola-stuffed baked apples feels like a taste of fall. It's a moment when time stops, and all you feel is warmth and comfort.

Your kitchen will smell like autumn.

Here's a quick look at the recipe: mix granola with spices, add butter, fill apples, and bake. In an hour, your kitchen will smell like autumn. Enjoy your warm snack with ice cream or whipped cream for extra comfort.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Serves 4

Ingredients

4 small to medium baking apples, tops cut off and reserved, apples cored and hollowed out to make room for the granola.
5 T granola (use more if necessary based on size of apple)
2 T raisins plus dried fruit as desired (See above)
2 T nuts, chopped, optional
1 t ground cinnamon
4 t unsalted butter

Drizzle of honey, optional

Optional: Crème Fraiche or ice cream for serving

Key Takeaways

Start a fall culinary journey with an easy recipe for granola-stuffed baked apples.
Honeycrisp apples are perfect, with their sweetness and firmness for baking.
Make your granola-stuffed baked apples memorable with homemade granola.
This dish is quick to make, making it perfect for a tasty snack or dessert.
It's a sweet treat that's also nutritious, with carbs, protein, and healthy fats.
Try serving these warm treats with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a complete autumn experience.

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the other ingredients. This ensures even cooking and the perfect texture for your baked apples.
Prepare the Granola Mixture: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of granola, ¼ cup of raisins, ¼ cup of chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans), and ¼ cup of assorted dried fruits (like cranberries or apricots). Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for warmth and flavor. Stir until the ingredients are well integrated. If you prefer a sweeter filling, drizzle about 1-2 tablespoons of honey over the mixture and stir again until the honey is evenly distributed.
Prepare the Apples: Take 4 medium-sized apples, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, and core them using an apple corer or a small knife. Ensure you remove all seeds and create a cavity for the filling, but be careful not to puncture the bottom of the apples. This will keep the delicious filling from leaking out during baking.
Stuff the Apples: Place the cored apples upright in an oven-proof baking dish, ensuring they are snug and won't tip over. Generously fill each apple with the prepared granola mixture, gently pressing it down to pack it and ensure it is well-stuffed.
Add Butter Topping: Cut a pat of butter (about 1 teaspoon) for each apple and place it directly on top of the granola filling. This will melt and soak through the granola and apple, enhancing the flavor and texture as they bake.
Bake the Apples: Transfer the baking dish to your preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are soft to the touch and the tops are bubbly and sticky. Baking times might vary depending on the size and type of the apples used, so check with a fork for softness.
Cool the Apples: Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and allow the apples to cool for a few minutes. This cooling time helps to set the filling and makes them easier to handle.
Serve: Serve the baked apples warm, either as they are or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of crème fraiche for extra indulgence. This combination of warm, spiced apples with cool, creamy accompaniment makes for a delightful dessert experience.
Final Touch: For an added decorative touch, sprinkle a bit of cinnamon or drizzle a tiny bit of honey over the apples just before serving.

These baked apples are a cozy, delicious treat for a comfortable evening or a festive gathering.

The Perfect Autumn Treat: Stuffed Baked Apples

Autumn brings warm colors to the leaves; nothing beats a cozy, healthy dessert. My go-to is a baked apple recipe filled with granola crumble.

This yummy fall recipe mixes apples' natural sweetness with a nutty filling. It's a dessert that warms your taste buds and fills your home with a great smell. The apples come out soft, showing the beauty of autumn cooking.

These stuffed baked apples are not only tasty but also healthy. They have 339 calories and 3 grams of protein. Here's what makes them unique:

Total cooking time: 40 minutes
They include tart apples, butter, brown sugar, chocolate chips, and chopped walnuts.
Each apple is stuffed and baked at 375°F. They're covered for 30 minutes to stay moist and then uncovered for 10 minutes to get a caramelized top.

Many people love this recipe. It has a 4.9 rating from 28 reviews. It's a favorite for those seeking a healthy dessert or just something comforting.

Trying this recipe is an excellent idea for autumn. You'll enjoy a yummy fall recipe and see how easy cooking with seasonal ingredients can be. So, get your apples and granola ready to bake something unique!

Finding the Best Apples for Granola Stuffed Baked Apples

When autumn comes, we can't help but notice the leaves and the apples. Choosing the right apple is key to a tasty granola-stuffed apple. The apple variety affects the dish's texture and sweetness.

Why Honeycrisp Apples are a Top Choice

Honeycrisp apples are often the first pick for stuffed baked apples. They have a sweet and tart taste, and their firmness is perfect for baking. This makes the apples crisp, contrasting well with the soft granola.

Their juiciness also adds moisture, blending well with the granola. This creates a perfect mix of flavors and textures in every bite.

Alternative Apple Varieties to Consider

Gala apples are sweeter and softer, baking well with the richness of the granola.
Granny Smith apples: For a tart flavor, these green apples are great. They also stay crunchy.
Jonagold: A mix of Jonathan and Golden Delicious, Jonagolds have a sweet-tart taste that pairs well with the granola.

Exploring different apples is fun, especially during apple season. It's a chance to find your favorite flavor. Whether you choose Honeycrisp or try something new, each apple adds a special touch to your dish.

The Role of Granola in Crafting the Ultimate Comfort Dessert

When I think of the perfect homemade granola, the terms sweet and crunchy come to mind. It's not just an add-on; it's the key to a comfortable dessert. Granola's hearty oats, nuts, and sweetness contrast with tender baked apples. This makes a simple dish into something truly special.

Choosing the Right Granola for Your Palate

Not all granolas are the same, especially with baked apples. The right granola can change the dish's flavor. For example, pumpkin spice granola adds autumn zest, while banana bread granola brings warmth. Choose a granola that matches your apple variety for a perfect taste.

Homemade Granola Options for the Adventurous Baker

Whipping up homemade granola is a fun challenge. It lets us control what's in it, making it granola-healthy. We can try different nuts and seeds or adjust sweetness. Making your granola means every bite is special.

Whether you buy or make your granola, it's crucial for granola-stuffed baked apples. The right granola enhances the apples' soft, spiced flavor. It turns a simple dessert into a burst of flavors and textures. There's nothing like enjoying freshly baked granola apple crisps, knowing they were made with care.

Baking Your Granola Stuffed Baked Apples to Perfection

Are you looking for a warm, comforting, healthy dessert? Roasted apples are hard to beat, especially when filled with crunchy granola. Let's explore how to make this easy recipe that's both sweet and wholesome.

Choosing the right apple is key. I love using Honey Crisp apples for this recipe. Their crisp texture and sweet taste complement the granola and spices perfectly. Imagine biting into a warm Honey Crisp apple, with cinnamon filling the air—truly heavenly!

Start by heating your oven to 350°F.
While it warms up, cut Honey Crisps in half and remove the core. This makes a great bowl for the granola.
Combine the granola with unsalted butter, honey, and brown sugar. This mix is sweet and indulgent.
Fill each apple half with the granola mix, pressing it down to fit.
Place the apples in a baking dish and add orange juice. The juice keeps them moist and prevents burning.
Cover the dish with foil to steam the apples. Bake for 25 minutes covered.
Take off the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes. This crisps the granola topping, adding a nice contrast.

The result is tender apples with a crunchy topping. This is a true delight from simple, natural ingredients. Healthy desserts like this are more than treats; they celebrate nature's goodness. So, prepare your ingredients and make these extraordinary healthy desserts that will warm your heart. Bon appétit!

Serving Suggestions: Making the Most of Your Baked Creation

When I take my granola-stuffed baked apples out of the oven, the kitchen fills with autumn flavors. Serving them right can make this delicious snack even more special. Here are some tips to make your granola crumble unforgettable.

Decadent Toppings to Elevate Your Dessert

To make these treats even more indulgent, try these toppings:

Vanilla ice cream: It melts into the warm apples, blending with the caramel and crunchy granola.
Crème Fraîche: A tangy dollop adds a creamy touch and balances the sweetness.
Chopped Nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch against the soft apples and granola.
Salted Caramel Drizzle: It adds a sweet and salty flavor that pairs well with the granola.

Pairing with Beverages for Cozy Fall Evenings

Choosing the right drink can make your granola stuffed baked apples even more special:

Freshly Brewed Coffee: Its bold flavor complements the spiced, sweet apples and granola.
Cinnamon-Spiced Cider: A warm mug of cider with cinnamon spices matches the apple's flavors.
Dessert Wines: For a fancy night cap, a sweet dessert wine can enhance the dessert's complex flavors.

These suggestions can turn your baked apples into a special treat for a festive meal or a cozy evening. The secret to enjoying the granola life is in the details that warm our hearts and palates. Share your creations with loved ones under autumn's warm light.

Conclusion

As autumn paints the world with vibrant colors, I turn to granola-stuffed baked apples. This recipe is a perfect mix of autumn flavors in a tender apple. My kitchen fills with the scent of cinnamon, creating a warm and nourishing experience.

This recipe is quick to prepare—only 10 minutes are needed. It cooks while you relax or do other tasks. It's perfect for sharing, serving 8 people, and making everyone happy.

The granola, with oats, maple syrup, and nuts, adds a special touch and makes the dessert a hearty centerpiece. With a 4.88-star rating and many ways to customize, it's a hit for any meal.

Each bite is a joy, whether with yogurt, caramel, or cinnamon. Watching the leaves fall reminds me of this dish's beauty. Autumn cooking is a true delight.

FAQ

What apples are best for making granola-stuffed baked apples?

Honeycrisp apples are a great choice because they are sweet and tart and stay firm during baking. Other good options include Gala for a sweeter taste and Granny Smith for a tangy flavor.

Can I use store-bought granola for this recipe?

Absolutely! Many store-bought granolas come in flavors like Pumpkin Spice or Apple Pie. They're easy to use and can add a lot of taste to your apples.

How can I make my own homemade granola for this dessert?

Making your own granola lets you pick the ingredients. Mix oats, nuts, seeds, spices, and sweeteners. Bake until it's golden and crunchy for the best taste.

Do granola-stuffed baked apples make a healthy dessert option?

Yes, they do. These apples are tasty and nutritious. Their natural sweetness and whole grains make them a guilt-free treat.

What are some tasty toppings for granola-stuffed baked apples?

For a special treat, try vanilla ice cream or crème fraîche. For a healthier option, drizzle with honey or top with vanilla bean yogurt. These toppings add great flavors and textures.

Can granola-stuffed baked apples be served as breakfast?

Absolutely! They're a great breakfast choice. The fruit and oats make for a filling and healthy start to your day. Add yogurt or honey for extra flavor.

What drinks pair well with granola-stuffed baked apples?

Drinks like coffee or hot cider pair well with these apples. They add to the cozy fall feeling.

Are granola-stuffed baked apples only a fall season treat?

No, you can enjoy them any time of the year. They're a comforting and healthy dessert choice.

How long does it take to bake granola-stuffed baked apples?

It takes about 20 minutes to cover and 15-20 minutes to uncover. They should be tender but not mushy, with the granola nicely roasted.

What's the calorie count for a serving of granola stuffed baked apples?

A serving has about 298 calories. It's a good mix of carbs, protein, and fats, making it a relatively healthy dessert.