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Caramel Drizzled Baked Apples are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. Juicy apples are baked until soft and tender, then drizzled with rich caramel sauce and sprinkled with a touch of sea salt for a perfect balance of sweetness and savoriness. This cozy dessert is simple to make and brings warmth to any gathering or quiet evening at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Caramel Drizzled Baked Apples are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. They capture the essence of autumn while offering a warm, comforting treat that can be enjoyed by everyone.
- Quick to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy night in.
- Customizable for different tastes and dietary preferences.
- Healthy fruit base meets indulgent caramel for a balanced dessert.
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup water
How to Make Caramel Drizzled Baked Apples
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and core the apples, leaving the bottom intact to hold the filling.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and chopped nuts if using.
- Fill each apple with the sugar mixture, packing it in gently.
- Place the stuffed apples upright in a baking dish. Dot the top of each apple with a small piece of butter.
- Pour the water into the bottom of the baking dish to help steam the apples as they bake.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Once baked, drizzle the warm caramel sauce over each apple and sprinkle with sea salt before serving.
Tips for the Best Results
- Choose apples that are firm and have a good balance of sweet and tart flavors.
- For a richer flavor, consider using homemade caramel sauce.
- Keep an eye on the apples during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.
Easy Variations
- Swap out the nuts for dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract to the sugar mixture for extra flavor.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent touch.
What to Serve With It
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
- A warm cup of spiced cider or hot chocolate for a cozy drink pairing.
- A sprinkle of granola for added crunch on top.
Storage and Reheating
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Leftover baked apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield/Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Wash and core the apples, leaving the bottom intact.
- Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts in a bowl.
- Fill each apple with the sugar mixture.
- Place apples in a baking dish, dot with butter.
- Pour water into the dish and cover with foil.
- Bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 15-20 minutes.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with sea salt before serving.
Notes: Customize with your favorite nuts or serve with ice cream for a special treat.
