These Baked Apples are filled with the comforting flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg making them perfect for the season. These tender butter and brown sugar-infused delights can be served for dessert after a hearty meal or for breakfast. These are sure to warm your heart and appetite.

Spices

Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a classic spice that pairs perfectly with apples. Its warm and sweet flavor complements the natural sweetness of the fruit.
Nutmeg: Nutmeg adds a slightly nutty and earthy flavor that works well with the sweetness of the apples. A little goes a long way, so you definitely won’t need much.

cinnamon, butter, brown sweetener, and fresh lemon in separate white bowls

What Type of Apples to Use

You’ll want to choose apples that hold up well during cooking and offer a balanced flavor. Generally, apples that are slightly tart and firm work best for frying as they won’t turn mushy quickly. Here are some options:

Granny Smith: These are known for their tartness and firm texture. They hold their shape well and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the dish.
Honeycrisp: Honeycrisp apples are crisp and juicy, with a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors. They can add a pleasant texture.
Golden Delicious: These are sweet with a mild flavor and a slightly softer texture.
Jonagold: Jonagold apples offer a blend of sweetness and tartness. They’re firm enough to withstand cooking and can contribute to a well-rounded flavor profile.
Fuji: Fuji apples are sweet and crisp, but they can soften more quickly during cooking. While they might not retain their shape as well as other varieties, they can still be used if you prefer a softer texture.

peeled and sliced apples in a glass bowl

Peeling the Apples

I prefer to peel the apples beforehand. The apple peel can add a slightly chewy texture to your fried apples. If you prefer a smoother texture, you might want to peel the apples. Peeled apples are also usually more visually appealing.

If you want to keep the peels on, it’s totally fine. A significant amount of the nutrients and fiber in apples are found in the peel. If you’re aiming to maximize the nutritional content of your dish, leaving the peel on can be beneficial.

peeled and sliced apples in a cast iron skillet

sliced apples, brown sweetener, and butter in a cast iron skillet

Can You Use Whole Apples

You can use whole apples and bake them at 375 degrees for 40-50 minutes until soft.

What Type of Pan to Use

You’ll want to use a pan or skillet that provides even heat distribution and allows you to easily sauté the apple slices without overcrowding. Here are some options:

Cast Iron Skillet: Cast iron skillets are known for their excellent heat retention and even heating. They can create a beautiful caramelization on the apples due to their ability to hold and distribute heat effectively.
Glass Baking Dish: A glass baking dish conducts heat well and allows you to monitor the cooking process through the transparent sides.
Ceramic Baking Dish: Similar to a glass dish, a ceramic baking dish is great for even heating and can go from oven to table for a rustic presentation.
Metal Baking Pan: A metal baking pan, such as a stainless steel or aluminum pan, can also work. Just make sure it’s properly greased or lined to prevent sticking.

cinnamon baked apples in a cast iron skillet

How to Serve

Baked apples can be served on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added decadence. The flavors of the sweet filling meld with the softened apple, creating a comforting and delightful dessert that’s perfect for fall or any time of the year.

How to Store

You can store leftovers tightly covered and sealed for 3-4 days in the fridge. You can reheat these in the microwave, on the stove, or in the slow cooker until warm.

Freezer Tips

You can freeze leftovers tightly covered and sealed for 6-8 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge.

Pair With These Recipes

Maple Divinity Candy
Pimento Cheese
Pickled Shrimp
Southern Deviled Eggs
Fried Green Tomatoes
Broccoli Au Gratin

More Apple Recipes

Caramel Apple Cider
Sugar Free Apple Pie
Sugar Free Apple Butter
Sugar Free Apple Crisp
Slow Cooker Crockpot Apple Oatmeal
Cranberry Sauce with Apples

Print Pin

5 from 1 vote

Cinnamon Baked Apples

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Total Time 55

Servings

Calories 101kcal

Author Brandi Crawford

Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter Melted and measured solid.
1 1/2 pounds apples Peeled and cored and sliced into wedges. See notes for the type of apples to use.
1/4 cup sweetener or sugar Use more or less to suit your taste.
2 tablespoons brown sweetener or sugar Use more or less to suit your taste.
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adjust to suit your taste.
1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
foil

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Combine all of the ingredients and add them to a 9×13 inch baking dish or cast iron skillet.
Cover with foil and bake for 35-45 minutes until the apples are soft.

Notes

You can use whole apples and bake them at 375 degrees for 40-50 minutes until soft.

Cook time will vary based on the type of pan you use and the apples you select. The size of the apple slices also factors. Thinner slices will cook faster than thick slices.

Ensure your apples are evenly sliced to ensure consistent cook time and to avoid mushy apples.

To avoid an overly sweet dish, start with 1 teaspoon of sweetener or sugar and build from there and adjust the dish to suit your taste.

You can use all granular sweetener or sugar or all brown sugar or sweetener if you wish. Light or dark brown sugar or sweetener will work for this recipe.

Here are examples of apples that will work well in the recipe:

Granny Smith: These are known for their tartness and firm texture. They hold their shape well and provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the dish.

Honeycrisp: Honeycrisp are crisp and juicy, with a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors. They can add a pleasant texture.

Golden Delicious: These are sweet with a mild flavor and a slightly softer texture.

Jonagold: Jonagold apples offer a blend of sweetness and tartness. They’re firm enough to withstand cooking and can contribute to a well-rounded flavor profile.

Fuji: Fuji apples are sweet and crisp, but they can soften more quickly during cooking. While they might not retain their shape as well as other varieties, they can still be used if you prefer a softer texture.

Nutrition

Serving: 6oz | Calories: 101kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Fat: 4g