Perfect Baked Apples with Cinnamon Recipe

Baked apples with cinnamon are made by coring apples, filling them with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter, then baking at 375°F (190°C) for 35-45 minutes until tender. This simple recipe requires just 5 basic ingredients and creates a warm, comforting dessert that pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream or yogurt.

Baked apples with cinnamon represent one of the most comforting and straightforward desserts that requires minimal ingredients yet delivers maximum flavor. This classic preparation transforms ordinary apples into a warm, aromatic treat that's perfect for any season but especially cherished during fall and winter months. The natural sweetness of the apples combines beautifully with the warm spice of cinnamon, creating a dessert that feels indulgent while still maintaining a wholesome quality.

The Science Behind Perfectly Baked Apples

Understanding why certain techniques work can elevate your baked apples from good to exceptional. When apples bake, their pectin breaks down, softening the fruit while natural sugars caramelize. The addition of cinnamon doesn't just provide flavor—it contains compounds that enhance our perception of sweetness, allowing you to potentially reduce added sugar without sacrificing taste.

Essential Ingredients for Classic Baked Apples

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. For the best results when making baked apples with cinnamon and oats topping, you'll need:

Ingredient	Amount per Apple	Recommended Varieties
Apples	1 medium	Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith
Brown sugar	1-2 tablespoons	Light or dark
Cinnamon	½-1 teaspoon	Ceylon or Cassia
Butter	1 teaspoon	Unsalted
Lemon juice	½ teaspoon	Freshly squeezed

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Follow these instructions for perfectly baked apples with cinnamon every time:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish with a small amount of water
2. Wash and dry 4 medium apples, then carefully remove the cores using an apple corer or small knife
3. In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup brown sugar with 1½ teaspoons cinnamon
4. Fill each cored apple with the sugar-cinnamon mixture, pressing gently to pack it in
5. Place ¼ teaspoon butter on top of each filled apple
6. Add one tablespoon of water to the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking
7. Bake for 35-45 minutes until apples are tender when pierced with a fork
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving

Pro Tips for Baking Success

Mastering baked cinnamon apples requires attention to a few key details:

• Apple selection matters: Honeycrisp offers the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, while Granny Smith holds its shape better during baking
• Prevent bursting: Score the equator of each apple with a knife to create a natural break point as the fruit expands
• Enhance flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to your cinnamon mixture for more complex baked apples with cinnamon and nutmeg variations
• Texture control: For firmer apples, reduce baking time; for softer, more caramelized results, extend by 5-10 minutes

Delicious Variations to Try

Once you've mastered the basic recipe for baked apples with cinnamon, experiment with these popular variations:

Oat Crumble Topping

Mix ¼ cup rolled oats with 2 tablespoons flour, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons cold butter. Sprinkle over apples before baking for a crunchy topping that transforms your simple baked apples into a more substantial dessert.

Healthy Baked Apples Alternative

For sugar-free baked apples with cinnamon, substitute the brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of chopped dates or a drizzle of pure maple syrup. Add chopped walnuts for healthy fats and additional texture.

Adults-Only Version

After baking, drizzle warm baked apples with cinnamon and bourbon sauce made by simmering 2 tablespoons bourbon with 2 tablespoons honey until slightly thickened.

Serving and Storage Recommendations

Baked apples with cinnamon taste best when served warm. Pair them with:

• Vanilla ice cream for classic warmth/cool contrast
• Plain Greek yogurt for a protein-rich option
• Whipped cream for special occasions
• A drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. The flavors often deepen when allowed to rest overnight, making baked apples with cinnamon an excellent make-ahead dessert.

Nutritional Benefits of Baked Apples

Unlike many desserts, baked apples with cinnamon offer genuine nutritional advantages. Apples retain most of their fiber when baked, providing approximately 4 grams per medium apple. The natural pectin in apples supports digestive health, while cinnamon contains antioxidants with potential blood sugar regulating properties. When prepared with minimal added sugar, this dessert can satisfy sweet cravings while contributing to your daily fruit intake.

What's the best apple variety for baking with cinnamon?

Honeycrisp apples offer the ideal balance for baked apples with cinnamon, providing sweetness with a hint of tartness that holds its shape well during baking. Granny Smith works well if you prefer a more tart flavor that maintains firmness, while Fuji apples create a sweeter, softer result.

How do I prevent baked apples from becoming mushy?

To prevent mushy baked apples with cinnamon, choose firmer varieties like Granny Smith, score around the equator to control expansion, and avoid overbaking. Check for doneness at 35 minutes by inserting a fork—if it meets slight resistance, they're perfect. The apples will continue softening slightly after removal from the oven.

Can I make baked apples with cinnamon ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare baked apples with cinnamon up to 2 days in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and reheat in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes before serving. Many find the flavors deepen and improve when allowed to rest, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert option for busy schedules.

What's the ideal baking temperature for cinnamon apples?

The ideal baking temperature for baked apples with cinnamon is 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the apples to cook through evenly without becoming mushy or drying out. Lower temperatures may result in undercooked centers, while higher temperatures can cause the apples to collapse before the interior is tender.