1. 1. 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.

1. 1. Prepare the Granola Mixture: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of granola, 1/4 cup of raisins, 1/4 cup of chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans), and 1/4 cup of assorted dried fruits (like cranberries or apricots). Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the mixture 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.

1. 1. 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.

1. 1. Stuff the Apples: Place the cored apples upright in an oven-proof baking dish, making sure they are snug and won't tip over. Generously fill each apple with the prepared granola mixture, pressing it down gently to pack it in and ensure each apple is well-stuffed.

1. 1. 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.

1. 1. 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.

1. 1. 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.

1. 1. 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.

1. 1. 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 perfect for a cozy evening or a festive gathering.