This Apple Cinnamon Bake is the perfect comfort dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the warm flavor of cinnamon. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 6 medium-sized apples (your favorite variety), sliced
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Apples:
- Start by washing the apples thoroughly. Then, slice them into thin pieces, leaving the skin on for added texture and nutrients.
- Mix the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss to coat the apples evenly.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, flour, and salt.
- Combine Everything:
- Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the apple slices. Toss until the apples are well coated with the sugar and cinnamon mixture.
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.
- Pour the coated apples into the prepared baking dish, spreading them out evenly.
- Add Butter:
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the apples. This will help to create a rich, buttery flavor as the apples bake.
- Bake the Apples:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown. The apples should be bubbling and the kitchen will be filled with a delightful cinnamon aroma.
- Serve:
- Allow the Apple Cinnamon Bake to cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
- For an extra treat, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips for the Perfect Apple Cinnamon Bake:
- Choosing the Right Apples:
- Use a variety of apples for the best flavor and texture. Some great choices include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. These apples hold their shape well when baked and provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Adjusting Sweetness:
- If your apples are particularly sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe. Conversely, if they are very tart, you might want to add a little more sugar.
- Adding Nuts:
- For added crunch and flavor, consider mixing in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans with the apples.
- Spices:
- While cinnamon is the star spice in this recipe, feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for an additional layer of warmth.
- Gluten-Free Option:
- If you need a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Why This Recipe Works:
This Apple Cinnamon Bake works so well because of its simplicity and the way it enhances the natural flavors of the apples. The combination of sugars creates a caramel-like sauce that coats each apple slice, while the cinnamon adds a warm, comforting flavor. Baking the apples at a moderate temperature ensures they become tender without turning mushy.
Additional Serving Ideas:
This dessert is versatile and can be paired with various accompaniments to elevate its taste. Here are a few ideas:
- Vanilla Ice Cream:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of warm apple cinnamon bake creates a delightful contrast between hot and cold.
- Whipped Cream:
- Freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy complement to the rich and sweet baked apples.
- Yogurt:
- For a healthier option, serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt. The tanginess of the yogurt balances the sweetness of the apples.
- Caramel Sauce:
- Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of decadence.
- Cheese Pairing:
- A slice of sharp cheddar cheese on the side can add an interesting and delicious twist, as the sharpness of the cheese pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apples.
Storage Tips:
If you have leftovers, this Apple Cinnamon Bake stores well in the refrigerator:
- Cooling:
- Allow the dessert to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation from forming in the container.
- Refrigeration:
- Place the cooled apple bake in an airtight container or cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating:
- To reheat, place a portion in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Customizing Your Apple Cinnamon Bake:
This recipe is a great base that can be customized in many ways to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
- Different Fruits:
- Substitute or add in other fruits like pears, peaches, or berries for a mixed fruit bake.
- Crumb Topping:
- Add a crumb topping made from flour, brown sugar, oats, and butter for added texture and flavor.
- Healthier Options:
- Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute to reduce the sugar content. You can also add more fiber by including some rolled oats in the mixture.
- Alcohol:
- For an adult twist, add a splash of bourbon or brandy to the apple mixture before baking.
This Apple Cinnamon Bake is a dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. It’s quick to put together, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a delightful, comforting flavor. Perfect for any season, this dish brings a touch of warmth and sweetness to your table. Enjoy it with loved ones and watch it become a favorite in your household!
