If you are searching for a cozy, comforting dessert that bursts with flavor and warmth, this Baked Apples with Cranberries, Walnuts, and Caramel Sauce Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Tender baked apples filled with a sweet and spiced mixture of cranberries and walnuts, finished with a drizzle of luscious caramel sauce, create the perfect balance of tart, sweet, and nutty flavors. It’s a dessert that invites you to slow down, savor every bite, and maybe share a moment of joy with friends or family. Whether you’re craving something elegant for a dinner party or a simple treat to brighten your day, this recipe is sure to impress with its irresistible combination of texture and taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Baked Apples with Cranberries, Walnuts, and Caramel Sauce Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an important role: from the natural sweetness and structure of the apples to the crunch of walnuts and the rich warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, every element enhances the final dish.
- 6 medium baking apples: Choose firm apples like Jonagold or Braeburn to ensure they hold their shape while baking.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and sweetness to the filling.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Provides a warm spiced aroma that complements the fruit beautifully.
- 1/8 tsp grated nutmeg: A subtle spice that adds complexity to the flavor without overpowering.
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries: Their tartness cuts through the sweetness and adds vibrant color.
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter: Melts over the filling, enriching it with creamy goodness.
- 1/4 cup walnuts, finely chopped (optional): Offers a delightful crunch and earthy tone matching the baked apples.
- 1 cup hot water (or substitute apple cider/apple juice): Keeps the apples moist and creates a luscious sauce during baking.
- Unsweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream: Perfect cold contrast to the warm apples.
- Caramel Sauce: Use our easy homemade caramel sauce recipe for a rich, buttery finish that ties everything together.
How to Make Baked Apples with Cranberries, Walnuts, and Caramel Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spiced Cranberry Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 375ËšF. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg with a fork until well mixed. Stir in the dried cranberries for a pop of tartness and sweetness. Setting this mixture aside helps all those flavors meld while you prep the apples.
Step 2: Core the Apples
Carefully wash and core each apple using a melon baller or small paring knife. Make sure to leave the bottom of each apple intact to hold the delicious filling inside. This step is key to keeping the filling in place as the apples bake. Arrange the apples in a casserole dish with enough room so they don’t touch each other.
Step 3: Stuff and Top the Apples
Divide the cranberry filling evenly among the apples, pressing it down gently. Dot each apple with half a tablespoon of unsalted butter. If you’re using walnuts, sprinkle them on top now along with any leftover cinnamon sugar mixture for an extra flavor boost and beautiful crunch.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the hot water (or your preferred substitute like apple cider) into the bottom of the casserole dish. This will keep the apples moist and help create a delightful syrup as they cook. Bake the apples at 375ËšF for 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size and variety of the apples. You want them soft yet holding their shape, tender and juicy.
Step 5: Serve with a Touch of Luxury
When the apples are tender and the filling bubbling with warmth, scoop some of the juices over each apple. Top warmly with a generous dollop of unsweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Finally, drizzle the house-made caramel sauce over the top for that irresistible finishing touch that makes this dessert unforgettable.
How to Serve Baked Apples with Cranberries, Walnuts, and Caramel Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this dessert into something extraordinary. Try sprinkling a little extra chopped walnuts for crunch and texture, a dusting of cinnamon for aroma, or even a fresh sprig of mint for a burst of color. These small touches make serving feel special and inviting.
Side Dishes
Though delicious on their own, baked apples pair wonderfully with breakfast or brunch items. Serve alongside a warm bowl of oatmeal or yogurt for a cozy morning treat. For dinner, they complement roast pork or turkey beautifully, bridging savory and sweet flavors with ease.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, place each baked apple on a decorative plate surrounded by a drizzle of extra caramel sauce and scattered cranberries or nut pieces. Another fun idea is to hollow out apples slightly larger than usual and use them as edible bowls, serving alongside a crisp green salad to balance the sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled not only preserves their flavor but also allows the filling to set, making reheating easy and mess-free.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these ahead of time, you can freeze the baked apples after cooking. Wrap each apple tightly with plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll maintain quality for up to 2 months and make a quick dessert option on busy evenings.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers, gently reheat the apples in a warm oven (around 325ËšF) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to retain the texture. Add fresh caramel sauce or whipped cream after heating for maximum indulgence.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! Firm, baking apples like Jonagold, Braeburn, or Honeycrisp work best because they hold their shape when baked. Avoid very soft apples as they may become mushy.
Are walnuts necessary or can I omit them?
Walnuts add lovely texture and a nutty flavor but are optional. If you have allergies or prefer a simpler filling, feel free to leave them out without compromising the essence of the dish.
Can I make the caramel sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The caramel sauce can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Warm it gently before serving to restore its perfect drizzling consistency.
Is there a substitute for dried cranberries?
If you don’t have cranberries on hand, raisins or chopped dried cherries can work beautifully to provide that sweet-tart bite in the filling.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
With a few swaps, yes! Use vegan butter or coconut oil and substitute whipped cream or ice cream with plant-based alternatives. The caramel sauce can also be made vegan by using coconut cream instead of dairy.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Apples with Cranberries, Walnuts, and Caramel Sauce Recipe is one of those delightful dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Easy to prepare yet packed with flavor and charm, it’s perfect for bringing a little sweetness to any day. I hope you give this recipe a try soon—it’s a timeless treat that’s sure to become as beloved in your kitchen as it is in mine.
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Baked Apples with Cranberries, Walnuts, and Caramel Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 baked apples (6 servings)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful Baked Apples recipe features tender, cinnamon-spiced apples stuffed with a sweet mixture of brown sugar, dried cranberries, and nuts, then baked to perfection. Served warm with a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce and topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, this comforting dessert is perfect for cozy evenings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Baked Apples
- 6 medium baking apples
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp grated nutmeg
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries (craisins or raisins)
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup walnuts (finely chopped, optional)
- 1 cup hot water (or substitute apple cider or apple juice)
Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 cup half and half (or equal parts heavy cream and milk)
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
To Serve
- Unsweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat the oven to 375ËšF. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, and 1/8 tsp grated nutmeg. Stir with a fork, then add 1/3 cup dried cranberries and mix to create the filling. Set aside.
- Core the Apples: Wash the apples and carefully core them using a melon baller or small paring knife, making sure to leave the base intact so the filling won’t spill out. Place the apples upright in a casserole dish that holds them without touching each other.
- Stuff the Apples: Divide the prepared filling evenly into each apple’s cavity. Top each apple with 1/2 tablespoon of unsalted butter, sprinkle with finely chopped walnuts if using, and then sprinkle any remaining cinnamon and sugar mixture over the apples. Arrange them in a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Bake: Pour 1 cup of hot water (or substitute apple cider/apple juice) into the bottom of the casserole dish. Bake the apples in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the apples are tender but not mushy. Baking time varies depending on apple variety and size; Jonagold apples take about 45 minutes, while larger apples like Braeburn can take up to an hour.
- Make the Caramel Sauce: While the apples bake, combine 1 cup packed light brown sugar, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon sea salt, 1/2 cup half and half (or equal parts heavy cream and milk), and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract in a small to medium saucepan. Heat over low, whisking constantly until the mixture starts to simmer and thickens, about 6–9 minutes. Remember it will thicken further as it cools.
- Serve: Once baked, spoon the juices from the baking dish over each apple. Serve each apple topped with a generous dollop of unsweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and drizzle with warm caramel sauce. Enjoy this cozy, comforting dessert warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Choose baking apples like Jonagold, Braeburn, or Granny Smith for the best texture—firm but tender after baking.
- Do not core the apples all the way through; leave the bottom intact to hold the filling in place.
- For a dairy-free caramel sauce substitute butter and half and half with coconut oil and coconut milk, respectively.
- Optional walnuts add a nice crunch but can be omitted or replaced with pecans or almonds.
- Caramel sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated; rewarm gently before serving.
- Try substituting dried cranberries with raisins or chopped dried apricots for variation.
