Imagine biting into a warm, tender apple filled with a sweet and nutty mixture. Pecan Stuffed Baked Apples are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy fall evening or a festive gathering. They are easy to prepare and bring a comforting aroma that fills your home with the essence of autumn. This delightful dessert is not only delicious but also showcases the natural sweetness of apples while adding a crunchy pecan filling. Let’s dive into why you should make these scrumptious baked apples today!
Top Reasons to Make Pecan Stuffed Baked Apples
– These baked apples are a wholesome dessert that combines the goodness of fruit with the crunch of nuts.
– The recipe is incredibly simple and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
– It’s a great way to use up any apples that may be sitting in your kitchen.
– The aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through your home is an experience in itself.
– They can be easily made vegan by substituting the coconut oil and molasses with alternatives like maple syrup.
What Goes In
To create these delicious Pecan Stuffed Baked Apples, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 large apples (Gala or Fuji work great!)
- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup water
Recommended Tools
To make the process smoother, here are a few tools you might need:
- Paring knife: For coring and slicing the apples.
- Baking dish: To hold the apples while they bake.
- Mixing bowl: For combining the pecan filling.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate measurements of ingredients.
Build Pecan Stuffed Baked Apples Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, wash the apples under cool water. Using a paring knife, carefully core the apples, making sure to leave the bottom intact to hold the filling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans, coconut sugar, melted coconut oil, molasses, and ground cinnamon. Stir until the mixture is well combined and sticky.
Step 3: Stuff the Apples
Fill each cored apple with the pecan mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
Step 4: Arrange in Baking Dish
Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish. Pour the water around the apples to help create steam while baking, which keeps the apples moist.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender but not mushy.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from the oven and let the apples cool slightly before serving. These Pecan Stuffed Baked Apples are delicious on their own or can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives
If you’re looking for low-carb or keto-friendly options, consider these substitutions:
- Replace coconut sugar with erythritol or stevia for a sugar-free alternative.
- Use almond flour instead of pecans for a different texture and flavor.
- Substitute coconut oil with unsalted butter or ghee.
Flavor Logic
The combination of sweet apples and crunchy pecans creates a delightful contrast that enhances each bite. The warm spices, particularly cinnamon, not only add depth to the flavor but also bring out the natural sweetness of the apples. You can customize the filling by adding dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for an extra layer of flavor or even a splash of vanilla extract for a fragrant twist.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for a minute or two until warmed through. They also make an excellent breakfast option when paired with yogurt or oatmeal. You can prepare the filling in advance and simply stuff and bake the apples when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Troubleshooting Q&A
What if my apples are too firm after baking?
If your apples are still firm after the suggested baking time, cover them with foil and continue to bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will help them soften without overcooking.
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! While Gala and Fuji apples are recommended for their sweetness and texture, you can experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a tangy twist.
How can I make this recipe nut-free?
For a nut-free version, you can substitute the pecans with rolled oats or a mixture of seeds like pumpkin and sunflower seeds. This will still give you a crunchy filling without the nuts.
Can I prepare these apples in advance?
Yes! You can core and stuff the apples a day in advance. Just cover them and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Quick Weeknight Wins
If you’re looking for more easy and delicious recipes, check out these favorites:
- Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Stuffed Shells – A comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for busy nights.
- Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Stuffed Baked Potatoes – A hearty and satisfying meal that’s simple to prepare.
Next Steps
Now that you know how to make Pecan Stuffed Baked Apples, it’s time to put your skills to the test! Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy the process of creating this delightful dessert. Remember, the joy of cooking comes not just from the finished product but also from the experience of making something delicious with your own hands. Happy baking!
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Pecan Stuffed Baked Apples
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wash the apples under cool water. Using a paring knife, carefully core the apples, making sure to leave the bottom intact to hold the filling. - Step 2: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans, coconut sugar, melted coconut oil, molasses, and ground cinnamon. Stir until the mixture is well combined and sticky. - Step 3: Stuff the Apples
Fill each cored apple with the pecan mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in. - Step 4: Arrange in Baking Dish
Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish. Pour the water around the apples to help create steam while baking, which keeps the apples moist. - Step 5: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender but not mushy. - Step 6: Serve
Remove from the oven and let the apples cool slightly before serving. These Pecan Stuffed Baked Apples are delicious on their own or can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheat in the microwave for a minute or two until warmed through.
- Prepare the filling in advance and stuff the apples just before baking.
