Pin Tender baked apples filled with a wholesome oat and nut crumble, offering natural sweetness with less sugar. A comforting, healthier dessert perfect for cooler days.
I first made these baked apples for a chilly autumn family gathering. Everyone loved the warm, spiced aroma that filled the house, and children enjoyed picking their favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- Apples: 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Braeburn), cored
- Crumble Topping: 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, 2 tbsp almond flour (or whole wheat flour), 2 tbsp light brown sugar or coconut sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, Pinch of salt, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted, 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce
- Optional: 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Prepare Apples:
- Wash and core the apples, creating a cavity for the filling while leaving the bottom intact
- Mix Crumble:
- In a medium bowl, combine oats, nuts, almond flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well
- Add Moist Ingredients:
- Add melted butter and applesauce to the mixture. Stir until the crumble is evenly moistened
- Optional Fruit:
- Stir in raisins or dried cranberries if desired
- Fill Apples:
- Place apples upright in a baking dish. Fill each apple generously with the oat-nut crumble
- Add Water:
- Add 2-3 tablespoons of water to the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking
- Bake Covered:
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes
- Bake Uncovered:
- Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until apples are tender and topping is golden
- Serve:
- Serve warm, plain or with a dollop of Greek yogurt
Pin 
Our family loves sharing these baked apples after a long brisk walk in the park. It is now a seasonal favorite for all ages.
Required Tools
Apple corer or paring knife, mixing bowl, baking dish, measuring cups and spoons, aluminum foil
Allergen Information
This recipe contains nuts and dairy: substitute as desired and check ingredient labels to avoid allergens
Nutritional Information
Each serving has approximately 220 calories, 9 g total fat, 35 g carbohydrates, and 3 g protein
Pin Enjoy these baked apples as a cozy dessert or snack. They are easy to make and sure to please in any season.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of apples work best for baking?
Firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn hold their shape well and provide balanced sweetness when baked.
- → Can I substitute nuts in the crumble topping?
Yes, you can replace walnuts or pecans with other nuts or omit them for a nut-free version.
- → How can I make the dish vegan-friendly?
Use plant-based butter instead of unsalted butter to keep the topping moist and flavorful.
- → Is it possible to add extra sweetness naturally?
Adding raisins, dried cranberries, or a drizzle of maple syrup can enhance sweetness without refined sugar.
- → Can other fruits be used instead of apples?
Pears work well as an alternative, offering a similar texture and pairing nicely with the oat-nut topping.
- → What’s the best way to serve these baked apples?
Serve warm, either plain or with a spoonful of Greek yogurt or vanilla yogurt for added creaminess.