Perfect Baked Cinnamon Apples Recipe in 30 Minutes

Here's the direct answer: A perfect baked cinnamon apples recipe requires 4 medium apples, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 2 tablespoons butter, and 1/4 cup water or apple juice. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until tender. This simple recipe yields 4 servings of warm, aromatic cinnamon apples ready in under 30 minutes.

If you're craving a warm, comforting dessert that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and baked apples, you've found the right recipe. Baked cinnamon apples are a classic treat that's surprisingly simple to prepare yet sophisticated enough to serve guests. This foolproof method creates perfectly tender apples with a delicate caramelized exterior and a soft, flavorful interior that pairs beautifully with ice cream or yogurt.

What makes this baked cinnamon apples recipe stand out is its balance of simplicity and depth of flavor. Unlike many recipes that require excessive sugar or complicated steps, this version highlights the natural sweetness of apples while enhancing them with just the right amount of warm spices. The secret lies in selecting the right apple varieties and understanding the precise baking time needed to achieve that perfect tender-but-not-mushy texture.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Baked Cinnamon Apples

The beauty of this recipe is its minimal ingredient list, each playing a crucial role in creating that signature flavor profile. Using quality ingredients makes all the difference in this easy baked cinnamon apples recipe.

Ingredient	Amount	Why It Matters
Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)	4 medium	Provides structure and balanced sweetness-tartness
Brown sugar	2 tablespoons	Adds caramel notes and enhances browning
Cinnamon	1 teaspoon	Creates the signature warm spice flavor
Nutmeg	1/4 teaspoon	Complements cinnamon with subtle complexity
Butter	2 tablespoons	Adds richness and helps create a caramelized sauce
Water or apple juice	1/4 cup	Prevents burning and creates a light syrup

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Follow these simple steps for the best cinnamon apple bake that's tender on the inside with a slightly caramelized exterior.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) - this precise temperature ensures even cooking without burning
2. Peel and core apples, then cut into 1-inch thick slices (keeping them uniform ensures even baking)
3. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg
4. Toss apple slices with the spice mixture until evenly coated
5. Place coated apples in a greased baking dish
6. Add small pieces of butter across the top of the apples
7. Pour water or apple juice around the apples (not over them)
8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes
9. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until apples are fork-tender
10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Mastering this simple baked apples with cinnamon and sugar recipe requires attention to a few key details:

• Apple selection matters: Granny Smith offers tartness that balances the sweetness, while Honeycrisp provides natural caramel notes. Avoid Red Delicious as they become mushy.
• Don't skip the resting time: Allowing the baked apples to rest for 5 minutes after baking lets the flavors develop and the sauce thicken slightly.
• Adjust liquid as needed: If your apples release more liquid than expected, remove the foil earlier to allow evaporation.
• For deeper flavor: Add a splash of bourbon or vanilla extract to the liquid for an extra dimension of flavor in your healthy baked cinnamon apples recipe.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This versatile baked cinnamon apples recipe adapts beautifully to different occasions and dietary preferences. For a traditional dessert presentation, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream - the contrast of hot apples and cold ice cream creates an irresistible experience. The natural sweetness of this recipe makes it perfect as a healthy dessert option that satisfies cravings without excessive sugar.

Consider these popular variations:

• Breakfast version: Reduce sugar to 1 tablespoon and serve over oatmeal or Greek yogurt
• Vegan adaptation: Substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option
• Fall special: Add 1/4 teaspoon each of allspice and cloves for a pumpkin spice variation
• Texture boost: Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts during the last 5 minutes of baking

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover baked cinnamon apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve overnight as the spices continue to meld with the apple slices. When reheating, add a small splash of water or apple juice to restore moisture, then warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. Avoid boiling, which can make the apples too soft.

For meal prep enthusiasts, this recipe freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. The texture remains excellent after freezing, making this an ideal make-ahead dessert for busy holiday seasons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make baked cinnamon apples without sugar?

Yes, you can omit the sugar entirely for a naturally sweet version. The apples will caramelize slightly on their own during baking, especially if you use naturally sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. For added sweetness without refined sugar, try stirring in 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup with the spices.

Which apples work best for baking with cinnamon?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal for baked cinnamon apples. Granny Smith holds its shape well and provides a nice tart contrast to the sweet spices, while Honeycrisp offers natural caramel notes that enhance the cinnamon flavor. Avoid Red Delicious or McIntosh as they become too mushy during baking.

How do I prevent baked apples from becoming mushy?

To prevent mushy baked apples, cut them into uniform 1-inch slices, don't overbake (25-30 minutes is usually perfect), and remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. The apples should be tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. Using firmer apple varieties like Granny Smith also helps maintain texture.

Can I prepare baked cinnamon apples ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare baked cinnamon apples up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then reheat gently with a splash of water or apple juice. For best results when making ahead, slightly underbake them initially (by 3-5 minutes) since they'll continue to soften when reheated.