Description

A simple, forgiving, and comforting baked apple dessert that requires no peeling or complex techniques. Naturally gluten-free and perfect for using up grocery store bounty apples.

Ingredients

Scale

6 medium apples (about 2 pounds / 900g), such as a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp or Fuji
4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
½ cup (100g) dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Optional: 1 tablespoon bourbon or rum

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Wash the apples thoroughly. Leave skins on for texture and nutrients, or peel if preferred.
Cut apples in half, remove the core, and slice into ½-inch wedges.
Toss apple slices in a large bowl with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Arrange apple slices in a 9-inch baking dish in a single layer or slight mound, ensuring they aren’t packed too tightly.
In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Sprinkle evenly over the apples.
Dot the top of the apples with the cubed butter.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until apples are tender when pierced with a fork and the sauce is bubbling and thickened.
If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil after 30 minutes.
Let cool for 10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
Drizzle with vanilla extract before serving. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

Choose firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Pink Lady to prevent them from turning into applesauce. Do not skip the lemon juice as it brightens the flavor. Letting the dessert cool for 10 minutes is crucial for the sauce to thicken. For a crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 180
Sugar: 22
Sodium: 5
Fat: 8
Saturated Fat: 5
Carbohydrates: 28
Fiber: 3
Protein: 1

Keywords: baked apples, fall dessert, easy dessert, gluten-free dessert, comfort food, autumn recipes, simple baking