Baked apples are the ultimate cozy treat, blending tender fruit with warm, spiced flavors in every bite. With just 20 minutes of prep and 30 minutes in the oven, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting dessert or snack. The soft, caramelized apple flesh pairs perfectly with a hint of cinnamon and a satisfying crunch from the topping.
Each spoonful offers a delightful mix of textures—juicy, sweet apples and a golden, slightly crisp exterior. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a wholesome dessert, these baked apples are a nostalgic yet effortless indulgence. They’re as versatile as they are delicious, making them a must-try for any occasion.
Ingredients for Baked Apples
- ½ cup + 2 tablespoons whole rolled oats (use gluten-free if needed)
- ½ cup almond flour (can substitute with oat flour)
- ⅓ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option)
- ¼ cup crushed walnuts (pecans or almonds work too)
- ½ teaspoon Apple Pie Spice (or cinnamon)
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ cup firm coconut oil (or cold butter for a non-vegan option)
- 4 apples, cored and halved (use firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- Melted coconut oil, for drizzling
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional, or use dairy-free ice cream)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Make the topping: In a small bowl, combine the oats, almond flour, brown sugar, walnuts, apple pie spice, and salt. Use your hands to work in the firm coconut oil until the mixture crumbles. If it’s too dry, add a few drizzles of water until it sticks together when pinched.
- Prepare the apples: Use a spoon to scoop out a bit of the center of each apple half. Place them in an ungreased baking dish large enough to hold the apples.
- Drizzle and coat: Drizzle the apples with melted coconut oil and rub it all over to coat evenly.
- Bake covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 10 minutes.
- Add the topping: Uncover the dish and top each apple half with generous spoonfuls of the crumble mixture. Drizzle a little more melted coconut oil on top.
- Bake uncovered: Return the dish to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the apples are softened and the topping is golden and crisp.
- Cool and serve: Let the baked apples cool slightly, then serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
Baked apples are a versatile dessert that pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings. For a classic touch, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle with chopped pecans for extra crunch. For a lighter option, try a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey.
Make It Your Own: Recipe Variations
Customize your baked apples to suit your taste! Swap almond flour for regular flour or gluten-free oats if needed. Add raisins or dried cranberries to the topping for a fruity twist. For a nut-free version, replace walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. You can also experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique flavor profile.
Quick Tips for Time-Saving Success
To streamline prep, use a melon baller or small spoon to core the apples quickly. If you’re short on time, skip the initial baking step and simply top the apples with the crumble mixture before baking. For an even faster dessert, prepare the topping in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just sprinkle it on when you’re ready to bake!
Storage and Reheating Made Easy
Store leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes until warm. The topping may lose some crispiness, but the flavor will still be delicious. For best results, enjoy fresh!
Essential Equipment Guidance
For this recipe, you’ll need a baking dish large enough to hold the apple halves without crowding. A mixing bowl and spoon are perfect for preparing the crumble topping. If you don’t have a melon baller, a paring knife works well for coring the apples. Don’t forget aluminum foil to cover the dish during the first part of baking!
Baked Apples
Ingredients
- ½ cup + 2 tablespoons whole rolled oats
- ½ cup almond flour
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup crushed walnuts
- ½ teaspoon Apple Pie Spice, or cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ cup firm coconut oil
- 4 apples, cored and halved
- Melted coconut oil, for drizzling
- Vanilla ice cream, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Make the topping: In a small bowl, combine the oats, almond flour, brown sugar, walnuts, apple pie spice, and salt. Use your hands to work in the firm coconut oil until the mixture crumbles. If the mixture is too dry, add a few drizzles of water until the mixture starts to stick together when pinched.
- Use a spoon to scoop out a bit of the center of each apple half. Place in an un-greased baking dish large enough to hold the apples. Drizzle with melted coconut oil and rub it all over the apples. Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes.
- Uncover and top each half with generous spoonfuls of the topping. Drizzle a little more coconut oil on top and bake for 20 minutes, or until the apples have softened and the topping is crisp.
- Let cool slightly and serve with vanilla ice cream.