Posted by Indulging in a warm dessert can be one of life’s simple pleasures, and these baked cinnamon apples are no exception. Bursting with flavor and comfort, this dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply treating yourself. The combination of sweet, tender apples mixed with aromatic spices creates an unforgettable experience that’s both decadent and nutritious. Each serving is a delightful way to enjoy the natural sweetness of apples while keeping your health goals in mind.
The Allure of Baked Cinnamon Apples
Baked cinnamon apples are not just a dessert; they can also serve as a side dish or breakfast topping. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility and ease of preparation. By utilizing fresh, wholesome ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent without compromising on health. Perfect for those following a weight management program, this recipe is low in points, making it a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious treat guilt-free.
Key Ingredients for Success
This recipe calls for a selection of ingredients that work harmoniously together, creating a warm and inviting dessert that captivates the senses. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 sprays of cooking spray: A light coating that prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
- 3 pounds of fresh apples: Select your favorite variety—Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well—peeled, cored, and thinly sliced to ensure even cooking.
- 3 tablespoons of packed brown sugar: This adds depth and richness to the apples, enhancing their natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch: A thickening agent that helps create a delightful syrup from the juices released by the apples.
- 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon: This warm spice elevates the flavor profile, providing that comforting, aromatic quality.
- ½ teaspoon of kosher salt: A touch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg: A hint of nutmeg adds complexity and warmth to the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Cinnamon Apples
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the preparation of these scrumptious baked cinnamon apples. Follow these detailed instructions to achieve the perfect dessert:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for baking apples, allowing them to soften while caramelizing their natural sugars.
- Prepare Your Baking Dish: Take a 13 x 9-inch baking dish and coat it generously with cooking spray. This will prevent the apples from sticking and make for easy cleanup later.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with the packed brown sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and ground nutmeg. Toss the ingredients together until the apple slices are evenly coated. The sugar and spices will cling to the apples, creating a flavorful filling.
- Transfer to the Baking Dish: Spoon the apple mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This will ensure that every slice gets the perfect amount of sweetness and spice.
- Add Water: Drizzle ¼ cup of water over the apple mixture. This addition helps to create steam in the oven, which aids in softening the apples and prevents them from drying out during baking.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This initial covered baking step allows the apples to release their juices, making them tender and flavorful.
- Uncover and Stir: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and stir the apple mixture gently. This ensures even cooking and prevents any apples from browning too quickly.
- Finish Baking: Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the apples are fork-tender and slightly caramelized. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible!
- Serving Suggestions: Once baked, these delicious cinnamon apples can be served warm on their own, or you can elevate the dish further with toppings. Consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Nutritional Information: Each serving (1/2 cup) is low in points, making it a delightful treat for anyone on a weight loss journey. For a complete dessert experience, you could serve it with a light whipped topping for just a few additional points.
Baked cinnamon apples topped with cream
These baked cinnamon apples are a delightful and wholesome dessert option that will satisfy your sweet cravings without compromising on health. Each serving is low in points, making it a fantastic choice for your dessert repertoire. You can enjoy them plain or enhance them with your favorite toppings for an extra treat!
Ingredients
- 4 sprays of cooking spray
- 3 pounds of fresh apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons of packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon of kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples with brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Drizzle ¼ cup of water over the top and cover with foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and stir the apples.
- Continue baking, uncovered, for an additional 20 minutes until the apples are tender.
Serving Size
- Makes 8 servings (1/2 cup each).
Topping Suggestion
For an even more indulgent experience, consider adding a light whipped topping like lite Cool Whip for a total of 3 points. Enjoy this delicious dessert that’s sure to impress!
