While the saying, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” may be an exaggeration, there’s no question that apples come with multiple health benefits. Plus, this beloved autumn fruit is convenient, versatile, and packed with wholesome flavor.

In this month’s video, PacificSource Well-being Program Manager Sabrina Black shares four reasons apples are amazing, plus a delicious, easy recipe for baked apples.

About the recipe:

This fairly quick dessert is one that both kids and adults enjoy. They’re filled with a buttery brown sugar and cinnamon crumble and baked until slightly soft. You can enjoy them warm from the oven as is, or go next level by serving with salted caramel or vanilla ice cream.

This month’s recipe comes courtesy of the Sally’s Baking Addiction website. You can find the full recipe below and also here: Baked Apples Recipe.

And finally, if this mouthwatering recipe isn’t enough to convince you, below are four more reasons to fall in love with apples.

Baked Apples

Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, light or dark
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 4 large apples (see note below), rinsed and patted dry
  • 3/4 cup warm water
  • Optional: 2 Tbsp raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. Combine butter, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in large mixing bowl. Scrape sides and mix well.
  3. Stir in oats and raisins or chopped nuts.
  4. Core the apples using a corer or paring knife.
  5. Cut around core, about halfway into the apple.
  6. Scoop out remaining seeds.
  7. Spoon filling into each apple and place in 8×8 baking pan.
  8. Add ¾ cup of warm water to the pan to prevent drying out and burning.
  9. Cook for 40 to 45 minutes. Less for crunchy; more for softer.

Cover and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Notes:

While we used Honeycrisp, feel free to use another type, such as Granny Smith, Fuji, or Pink Lady. Choose firm, round apples, and make sure they stand up straight, so they don’t tip over in the oven.

4 reasons apples are amazing

  1. Apples are nutrient-rich. With dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, they’re a fantastic way to support your overall health.
  2. They support a healthy gut. Depending on the size and type of apple, it could include 11-14% of the minimum recommended daily fiber.
  3. Your heart loves them. Regularly eating apples has been associated with reduced risk of heart disease because of the soluble fiber and antioxidants.
  4. Apples are super versatile. From salad toppers to desserts, and many things in between, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy apples. Plus, they come in a variety of colors, textures, and flavors.

Thanks for reading. We hope you enjoy the recipe and tips!

Please share this recipe with a friend or family member. We’d also love your feedback. If you try this recipe, please use the comments section below to let us know what you thought and share any tips you have.