Baked Apple Spiced Sweet

I still remember the first time I baked these tender apples filled with a sweet, spiced mixture—it filled my kitchen with the most comforting aroma and quickly became a go-to dessert on chilly evenings.

I’ll never forget when unexpected guests dropped by, and this baked apple dessert saved the day, coming together just as everyone settled around the table.

Ingredients

• Apples: I always pick large baking apples like Honeycrisp or Braeburn for their perfect balance of sweetness and tartness
• Filling: The brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, raisins, and optional walnuts create a sweet and spicy surprise inside each apple
• Liquid: Apple juice adds extra flavor but water works fine if you want to keep it simple
• Butter: Unsalted butter cut into small pieces melts on top, making the apples irresistibly rich

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and gather your apples, corer, and mixing bowl. The aromas you’re about to create will fill the kitchen warmly

Prepare the Apples:

Wash and carefully core them, making sure to leave the bottoms intact so the sweet filling doesn’t spill out

Mix the Filling:

Combine brown sugar, walnuts if using, raisins, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract in a bowl. The spices bring a cozy scent that hints at the wonderful flavors ahead

Stuff and Arrange:

Press the filling gently into each apple and place them snugly in your baking dish. Pour the apple juice or water around the apples for a moist bake

Top and Bake:

Dot each apple with a piece of butter and slide the dish into your oven. As it bakes, you’ll hear the apples soften and fill your home with a delicious warmth

Serve Warm:

Once tender but still holding their shape, serve the apples warm—maybe with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra special treat

Save

This baked apple dish has become more than just food; it’s a comfort that reminds me of cozy nights and friendly gatherings that turned ordinary moments into cherished memories.

Keeping It Fresh

If you plan to make this ahead, prep the apples and filling but hold off on baking. Store covered in the fridge overnight and bake fresh the next day to enjoy the freshest flavors.

When You're Missing Something

Don’t have walnuts? No problem—pecans make a great substitute. Also, dried cranberries can stand in for raisins to add a slightly tangy pop in the filling.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

I’ve found that serving these warm apples with vanilla ice cream brings out the contrast between hot and cold, sweet and creamy perfectly.

• Save some cinnamon for sprinkling on top right before serving to add a fresh burst of spice
• A drizzle of honey on individual plates adds a lovely touch of natural sweetness
• Leftover baked apples reheat well and taste just as delightful the next day

Save

Thanks for sharing this kitchen moment with me—may your baked apples bring you warmth and sweet memories every time you make them.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Which apples work best for baking?

Firm baking apples like Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Granny Smith hold their shape and provide balanced sweetness during baking.

→ Can nuts be omitted or substituted?

Yes, walnuts can be omitted for nut-free versions or replaced with pecans for a different crunch and flavor.

→ What liquid can be used to bake the apples?

Apple juice adds extra sweetness and moisture, but water works well for a lighter touch.

→ How do spices enhance the baked apples?

Cinnamon and nutmeg infuse warm, aromatic notes that complement the natural apple sweetness and enrich the filling.

→ Is there a recommended serving suggestion?

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to balance the spiced sweetness with creamy texture.

→ How can the dish be adapted for dietary restrictions?

Use plant-based butter and omit nuts to accommodate dairy and nut allergies without sacrificing flavor.