Cinnamon baked apples are the perfect way to celebrate the natural sweetness of fruit while filling your kitchen with a warm, spiced aroma. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish delivers a soft, caramelized texture, complemented by a touch of buttery richness and cinnamon’s cozy warmth. Whether served as a quick dessert, a nutritious breakfast topping, or a side for savory dishes, these baked apples are a fuss-free delight that suits any occasion.
Ingredient Breakdown
Apples are the star of this dish, with firmer varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji offering the best texture for baking, ensuring they hold their shape while becoming perfectly tender. Butter or coconut oil adds a velvety finish and encourages caramelization, deepening the apples’ natural sweetness as they roast. Cinnamon is the key spice, providing warmth and depth, enhancing every bite with its fragrant, comforting essence. Together, these simple ingredients create a dish that’s naturally sweet, subtly spiced, and irresistibly rich.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Prepping the Apples
Start by peeling the apples and cutting them into bite-sized chunks to allow for even baking. Choosing uniform pieces ensures they soften at the same rate while maintaining a satisfying texture.
Making the Cinnamon Mixture
Melt the butter or coconut oil, then mix it with cinnamon to create a smooth, aromatic coating. This mixture seeps into the apples as they bake, infusing them with flavor and moisture.
Coating the Apples Evenly
Pour the cinnamon-butter mixture over the apples and toss well, ensuring every piece is fully coated. Even distribution prevents dry spots and guarantees a rich, consistent taste in every bite.
Baking to Perfection
Spread the apples in a single layer in a baking dish and roast them at 350°F for 20-30 minutes. This allows them to soften gradually while developing a caramelized edge.
Stirring for Even Cooking
Halfway through baking, give the apples a gentle stir to ensure uniform cooking. This step helps prevent uneven textures and enhances their golden-brown color.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the Right Apples:
Firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith hold their shape best, while softer apples like McIntosh tend to break down more.
Adjusting the Sweetness:
Add maple syrup, honey, or a sprinkle of brown sugar if you prefer a sweeter dish.
Adding Extra Flavor:
A dash of vanilla extract, nutmeg, or a pinch of sea salt can enhance the depth of flavor.
Texture Preference:
Bake longer for an ultra-soft consistency or reduce the baking time slightly for firmer apples.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Store in an airtight container and reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
How do I prevent the apples from becoming too soft?
Choose firmer apple varieties and monitor the baking time carefully.
Can I use different spices?
Experiment with cardamom, allspice, or ginger for a unique flavor profile.
What if I don’t have butter or coconut oil?
Swap with ghee or a neutral oil for a different twist.
What to Serve With This Recipe
As a Standalone Dessert: Enjoy warm from the oven with a spoon.
With Dairy Pairings: Serve alongside vanilla ice cream, Greek yogurt, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Breakfast Ideas: Use as a topping for oatmeal, pancakes, waffles, or overnight oats.
Savory Combinations: Pair with roasted meats or add to cheese platters for a sweet-savory contrast.
Customization Ideas
Nutty Additions: Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
Dried Fruits: Toss in raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness and texture.
Grain-Free Crisp: Top with an almond flour crumble for a streusel-like effect.
Baking Alternatives: Try making these in an air fryer or slow cooker for a different texture.
Cinnamon baked apples are a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed any time of day. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dessert, a healthy snack, or a topping to enhance other meals, this recipe offers a naturally sweet, spiced treat that’s effortlessly satisfying. With endless customization possibilities, it’s sure to become a favorite go-to in your kitchen.
Ingredients
5–6 medium apples, peeled and chopped into bite-sized chunks
2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F, ensuring it reaches the proper temperature for even baking.
Place the chopped apples into a medium-sized baking dish, spreading them out to form an even layer. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted butter or coconut oil with the cinnamon until well combined. Pour this fragrant mixture over the apples, then use a spoon or spatula to toss everything together, ensuring each apple piece is evenly coated.
Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20–30 minutes, or until the apples turn soft and tender. Halfway through baking, give the apples a gentle stir to promote even caramelization. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm on their own, or pair them with yogurt, granola, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Cinnamon Baked Apples Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 –6 medium apples peeled and chopped into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F, ensuring it reaches the proper temperature for even baking.
- Place the chopped apples into a medium-sized baking dish, spreading them out to form an even layer. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the melted butter or coconut oil with the cinnamon until well combined. Pour this fragrant mixture over the apples, then use a spoon or spatula to toss everything together, ensuring each apple piece is evenly coated.
- Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20–30 minutes, or until the apples turn soft and tender. Halfway through baking, give the apples a gentle stir to promote even caramelization. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm on their own, or pair them with yogurt, granola, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
