Baked Apple Cinnamon Slices

Baked Apple Cinnamon Slices have become a delightful staple in our home, especially as the days get shorter and the air turns crisp. There’s something inherently comforting about the aroma of cinnamon and baked apples filling the kitchen – it instantly creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. My kids, who are usually picky eaters when it comes to fruits, devour these slices with gusto. Even my husband, who prefers savory treats, can’t resist sneaking a few warm slices straight from the oven. What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. It’s incredibly easy to throw together on a busy weeknight, yet elegant enough to serve as a light dessert for guests. Whether it’s a quick after-school snack or a healthy treat to satisfy a sweet craving, these baked apple cinnamon slices are always a hit. The natural sweetness of the apples is enhanced by the warm spice of cinnamon and a touch of sweetness, creating a perfectly balanced and utterly delicious dish that we make time and time again.

Ingredients

• Apples: (4-5 medium-sized apples) – The star of the show! Choose firm apples that hold their shape well during baking, such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn. A mix of varieties can add complexity to the flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon: (2 teaspoons) – The quintessential warm spice that complements apples perfectly. Use high-quality ground cinnamon for the best flavor.
• Brown Sugar: (2 tablespoons, packed) – Adds a touch of sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor, creating a lovely caramelization as it bakes. Light or dark brown sugar works well.
• Butter: (2 tablespoons, unsalted, melted) – Provides richness and helps the apple slices soften and become tender as they bake. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
• Lemon Juice: (1 tablespoon, freshly squeezed) – A crucial ingredient to prevent the apples from browning and adds a bright, tangy counterpoint to the sweetness. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred for its vibrant flavor.
• Water: (2 tablespoons) – Creates a bit of steam in the baking dish, helping the apples to cook evenly and preventing them from drying out.
• Optional: Pinch of Nutmeg or Allspice – For an extra layer of warmth and complexity, consider adding a tiny pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon mixture. These spices enhance the autumnal flavors beautifully.
• Optional: Oats or Granola – For added texture and a slightly nutty flavour, a sprinkle of rolled oats or granola can be added before baking or as a topping after baking. This adds a delightful crunch and heartiness to the dish.
• Optional: Maple Syrup or Honey – For a natural sweetener alternative, maple syrup or honey can be drizzled over the apple slices before baking or after. This adds a different flavour profile and sweetness depth.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven and prepare baking dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the apples bake through without burning and allows the cinnamon and sugar to caramelize beautifully. While the oven is preheating, prepare your baking dish. An 8×8 inch square baking dish or a similar-sized round dish works perfectly for this recipe. Lightly grease the baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the apple slices from sticking and ensure easy removal after baking. Using parchment paper to line the dish is another excellent option for effortless cleanup; simply lift the parchment paper out after baking.
2. Prepare the apples: Now it’s time to get those apples ready! Wash the apples thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or residue. Using a sharp knife or an apple corer, core each apple. You can leave the peels on for added fiber and nutrients, as well as a slightly rustic texture. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel the apples, but leaving the peels on is highly recommended. Once cored, slice each apple into approximately ¼-inch thick slices. Aim for uniform slices to ensure even cooking. You can slice them vertically or horizontally, depending on your preference and the shape of your apples. Place the apple slices in a medium-sized bowl as you slice them.
3. Combine cinnamon-sugar mixture: In a separate small bowl, prepare the flavorful cinnamon-sugar mixture. Combine the ground cinnamon and brown sugar. Use your fingers or a small whisk to mix these ingredients together until they are well combined and the brown sugar is evenly distributed throughout the cinnamon. This mixture will infuse the apple slices with that classic warm, sweet, and spicy flavor we all love. If you are using any optional spices like nutmeg or allspice, add them to this mixture now and stir to incorporate.
4. Add lemon juice and melted butter: Pour the freshly squeezed lemon juice over the apple slices in the bowl. The lemon juice is crucial for preventing oxidation and browning of the apples, keeping them looking bright and appealing. Toss the apple slices gently with the lemon juice to ensure they are evenly coated. Next, drizzle the melted butter over the apple slices. The melted butter adds richness, moisture, and helps the apples soften beautifully during baking. Toss the apple slices again to ensure they are well coated with both the lemon juice and melted butter.
5. Coat apples with cinnamon-sugar: Sprinkle the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the apple slices in the bowl. Use your hands or a spoon to gently toss the apple slices, ensuring that each slice is generously coated with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This step is key to achieving that delicious caramelized and flavorful coating on the baked apple slices. Make sure to distribute the mixture evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
6. Arrange apples in baking dish: Carefully arrange the cinnamon-sugar coated apple slices in the prepared baking dish. You can arrange them in a single layer or slightly overlapping layers, depending on the size of your dish and the quantity of apple slices. A single layer will promote more caramelization, while slightly overlapping layers will help the apples retain more moisture. Arrange them neatly for an appealing presentation, or simply scatter them for a more rustic look – both ways will taste equally delicious!
7. Add water and bake: Pour the water into the bottom of the baking dish, around the apple slices. The water creates steam during baking, which helps to keep the apples moist and prevents them from drying out. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and slightly caramelized. The baking time may vary depending on the type of apples used and your oven. Check for doneness by piercing a slice with a fork – it should be easily pierced and soft. The edges of the apple slices should be slightly golden brown and caramelized.
8. Cool slightly and serve: Once the baked apple cinnamon slices are done, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let them cool slightly in the dish for a few minutes before serving. This allows them to cool down enough to handle comfortably and lets the juices thicken slightly. Serving them warm is highly recommended as they are most comforting and flavorful when slightly warm. You can serve them directly from the baking dish or carefully transfer them to a serving platter.
9. Optional Broiling for Extra Caramelization: For an even more intensely caramelized top, you can broil the baked apple slices for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Keep a very close eye on them while broiling as they can burn quickly. Broiling will create a beautiful, slightly crispy, and deeply caramelized top layer that adds a wonderful textural contrast and enhanced flavor. This step is optional but highly recommended for those who love extra caramelization.

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, approximately 1/4 of the recipe, based on 4 apples and 4 servings)

• Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories per serving – A relatively low-calorie dessert option, making it a healthier choice compared to many other sweet treats. Calorie count can vary based on apple type and added sugar.
• Fiber: Approximately 4-5 grams per serving – Apples are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes satiety, and contributes to overall gut health. Fiber also helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Vitamin C: Provides a good source of Vitamin C – Apples are a decent source of Vitamin C, an important antioxidant that supports immune function and overall health. The exact amount varies depending on the apple variety.
• Potassium: Contains Potassium – Apples contain potassium, an essential mineral that plays a role in maintaining healthy blood pressure and muscle function.
• Natural Sugars: Contains naturally occurring sugars from apples – The sweetness in this dish primarily comes from the natural sugars in apples, which are accompanied by fiber and other nutrients, making it a more wholesome sweet treat compared to desserts loaded with refined sugars.

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes.

Preparation Time

• Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes – This recipe is wonderfully quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknights or when you need a dessert in a hurry. The active preparation time is minimal, with most of the time spent baking in the oven, freeing you up to do other things. From start to finish, you can have warm, delicious baked apple cinnamon slices in under 45 minutes, making it a fantastic option for spontaneous sweet cravings or last-minute gatherings.

How to Serve

Baked Apple Cinnamon Slices are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous delicious ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing! The warm, spiced apples combined with the cold, creamy vanilla ice cream is a match made in dessert heaven. The contrast in temperature and texture is incredibly satisfying.
• Topped with Whipped Cream: A lighter alternative to ice cream, freshly whipped cream adds a touch of elegance and airiness. You can even add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the whipped cream for extra flavor.
• With a Dollop of Greek Yogurt: For a healthier twist, serve with a dollop of plain or vanilla Greek yogurt. This adds protein and a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the apples.
• Drizzled with Caramel Sauce: Elevate the indulgence factor by drizzling warm caramel sauce over the baked apple slices. The caramel complements the cinnamon and apple flavors beautifully.
• Sprinkled with Chopped Nuts: Add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor by sprinkling chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds over the warm apple slices. Toasted nuts enhance the flavor even further.
• Alongside Oatmeal or Yogurt for Breakfast: Enjoy leftover baked apple slices as a warm and comforting topping for oatmeal or yogurt in the morning for a healthy and flavorful breakfast treat.
• With a Sprinkle of Granola: For added texture and a hint of sweetness, sprinkle granola over the baked apple slices. This is particularly nice for breakfast or a snack.
• As a Side Dish: Surprisingly, baked apple cinnamon slices can also be served as a warm side dish alongside savory mains like roasted pork, chicken, or even ham. The sweetness and spice provide a lovely contrast to savory flavors.

Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Apple Cinnamon Slices

1. Choose the Right Apples: Selecting the right type of apple is crucial for achieving the best texture and flavor. Opt for firm apples that hold their shape well during baking, such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, Braeburn, or Pink Lady. Softer apples like McIntosh or Red Delicious may become mushy when baked. A combination of apple varieties can also add depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Experiment with different types to find your personal favorite combination. Consider the sweetness level of the apples you choose as well; naturally sweeter apples might require less added sugar.
2. Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: Lemon juice is a vital ingredient in this recipe for two main reasons. First, it prevents the apple slices from browning and oxidizing, keeping them looking fresh and appealing. Second, the acidity of the lemon juice brightens the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the sugar and apples, adding a subtle tang that enhances the dish. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred over bottled juice for its brighter and more vibrant flavor.
3. Adjust Sweetness to Your Preference: The amount of brown sugar in this recipe can be adjusted to your personal preference. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of brown sugar. For a richer, more caramelized flavor, you can slightly increase the brown sugar. You can also experiment with using alternative sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar for a different flavor profile and sweetness level. Taste the cinnamon-sugar mixture before adding it to the apples and adjust as needed.
4. Control the Cinnamon: Cinnamon is the star spice in this dish, but you can adjust the amount to your liking. If you love a strong cinnamon flavor, you can slightly increase the amount of ground cinnamon. For a more subtle cinnamon flavor, reduce the amount. Consider using freshly ground cinnamon for a more intense and aromatic flavor. You can also experiment with adding other warm spices like nutmeg, allspice, ginger, or cardamom to create a more complex spice blend.
5. Melt the Butter Evenly: Melted butter is added for richness and to help the apples soften beautifully. Ensure the butter is melted evenly and drizzle it evenly over the apple slices for consistent distribution of flavor and moisture. You can melt the butter in the microwave or in a small saucepan on the stovetop. Be careful not to overheat the butter, as it can splatter.
6. Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can lead to dry and mushy apple slices. Bake the apple slices just until they are tender when pierced with a fork and slightly caramelized around the edges. The baking time can vary depending on the type of apples, the thickness of the slices, and your oven. Start checking for doneness around 25 minutes and adjust the baking time accordingly. The apples should be soft but still hold their shape somewhat, not completely falling apart.
7. Broil for Extra Caramelization (Optional but Recommended): For an extra touch of delicious caramelization and a slightly crispy top, broil the baked apple slices for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Keep a very close eye on them while broiling as they can burn quickly. Broiling intensifies the flavors and adds a beautiful visual appeal to the dish. This step is especially recommended if you want to elevate the presentation and flavor depth.
8. Experiment with Toppings and Variations: Get creative with toppings and variations to customize this recipe to your liking. As mentioned in the “How to Serve” section, ice cream, whipped cream, caramel sauce, nuts, granola, and yogurt are all fantastic topping options. You can also add a sprinkle of rolled oats or granola to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for added texture before baking. Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract to the mixture for enhanced flavor. For a richer dessert, try adding a crumble topping made with oats, flour, butter, and sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Baked Apple Cinnamon Slices

1. What are the best apples to use for baking apple slices?
   • The best apples for baking are firm varieties that hold their shape well and don’t become mushy. Excellent choices include Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, Braeburn, and Pink Lady. These apples offer a good balance of sweetness and tartness and maintain a pleasant texture after baking. Avoid softer apples like McIntosh or Red Delicious as they tend to become too soft when baked.
2. Can I use a different type of sugar instead of brown sugar?
   • Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with other types of sugar. Granulated sugar will work, but it will lack the molasses notes that brown sugar provides. Maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar can also be used for a different flavor profile and to reduce refined sugar content. If using liquid sweeteners, you might need to slightly adjust the amount of water added to the baking dish.
3. Can I make these baked apple slices ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the apple slices and cinnamon-sugar mixture ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. However, it’s best to bake them closer to serving time for the best texture and flavor. Baked apple slices are best served warm. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
4. How do I prevent the apple slices from browning before baking?
   • Lemon juice is the key to preventing apple slices from browning. Toss the apple slices with freshly squeezed lemon juice as soon as you slice them. The acidity of the lemon juice inhibits oxidation and keeps the apples looking fresh and appealing. Make sure to coat all surfaces of the apple slices with lemon juice.
5. Can I add oats or granola to this recipe?
   • Yes, adding oats or granola can add a delightful texture and nutty flavor to the baked apple slices. You can sprinkle rolled oats or granola over the cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking for a slightly crunchy topping. Alternatively, you can sprinkle granola over the baked apple slices after they come out of the oven for added crunch and visual appeal.
6. Are these baked apple cinnamon slices healthy?
   • Baked apple cinnamon slices can be considered a relatively healthy dessert option compared to many other sweet treats. They are naturally lower in fat and calories, especially if you control the amount of added sugar. Apples are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Using less sugar, opting for natural sweeteners, and serving with yogurt or fruit can further enhance the health benefits.
7. Can I double or halve this recipe?
   • Yes, this recipe is easily scalable. You can double or halve the recipe depending on the number of servings you need. Simply adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally. Make sure to use an appropriately sized baking dish to accommodate the amount of apple slices you are making. For a larger batch, you might need to increase the baking time slightly.
8. What are some variations I can try with this recipe?
   • There are many delicious variations you can try! Consider adding different spices like nutmeg, allspice, ginger, or cardamom to the cinnamon mixture. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract, almond extract, or even a touch of bourbon or rum for a more complex flavor. Experiment with different toppings like chopped nuts, dried cranberries, raisins, or a crumble topping. You can also try stuffing the cored apples with the cinnamon-sugar mixture and baking them whole for baked stuffed apples.

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