Pie Baked Apples
Who doesn’t love a warm, comforting apple pie? The sweet aroma that fills the air as it bakes in the oven is simply irresistible. But what if we took that classic apple pie and turned it into something even more delightful? That’s where pie baked apples come in!
What are Pie Baked Apples?
Pie baked apples are a delicious twist on traditional apple pie. Instead of creating a crust and filling, the apple itself becomes the vessel for all the yummy flavors. It’s like a mini apple pie, but without the hassle of making a crust.
How to Make Pie Baked Apples
Creating pie baked apples is as easy as it gets. All you need are some fresh apples, your favorite pie filling, and a few simple ingredients. Simply core the apples, fill them with the pie filling, and bake them until they are tender and golden brown. It’s that simple!
Step 1: Choose the Right Apples
When it comes to making pie baked apples, choosing the right type of apple is key. You want an apple that will hold up well during baking and have a good balance of sweet and tart flavors. Some great options include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Jonagold apples.
Step 2: Core the Apples
Using an apple corer or a small knife, carefully remove the core from each apple. Make sure to leave the bottom intact so that the filling doesn’t leak out during baking.
Step 3: Fill the Apples
Fill each cored apple with your desired pie filling. Whether you prefer classic apple pie filling or want to get creative with flavors like caramel or pumpkin, the choice is yours. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different combinations!
Step 4: Bake and Enjoy
Place the filled apples in a baking dish and bake them in a preheated oven until they are tender and the filling is bubbling. The exact baking time will depend on the size and variety of apples you are using. Once they are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Why You’ll Love Pie Baked Apples
Pie baked apples are a wonderful dessert option for several reasons. First, they are portion-controlled, making them great for individuals or smaller gatherings. Second, they eliminate the need for making and rolling out a pie crust, saving you time and effort. Lastly, they are just downright delicious! The combination of the tender apple and sweet, flavorful filling is pure bliss.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: Can I use any type of apple for pie baked apples?
A1: While you can technically use any type of apple for pie baked apples, some varieties work better than others. Look for apples that are firm and will hold their shape during baking.
Q2: Can I make pie baked apples ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the filled apples ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake them. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly if they are cold from the fridge.
Q3: Can I use store-bought pie filling?
A3: Yes, you can definitely use store-bought pie filling for convenience. However, homemade pie filling allows you to customize the flavors and control the ingredients.
Q4: Can I serve pie baked apples with ice cream?
A4: Absolutely! Serving pie baked apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic combination that adds a creamy and cold element to the warm, baked apples.
Q5: Can I make pie baked apples gluten-free?
A5: Yes, you can easily make pie baked apples gluten-free by using gluten-free pie filling and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Q6: Can I make pie baked apples vegan?
A6: Absolutely! There are many vegan pie filling options available, or you can make your own using plant-based ingredients. Just be sure to use vegan-friendly toppings and glazes, if desired.
Q7: Can I add nuts or other toppings to my pie baked apples?
A7: Of course! Adding chopped nuts, crumbled cookies, or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top of your pie baked apples can take them to the next level of deliciousness.
Q8: Can I reheat leftover pie baked apples?
A8: Yes, you can reheat leftover pie baked apples in the microwave or oven. Just be sure to cover them to prevent them from drying out.
In Conclusion
Pie baked apples are a delightful twist on the classic apple pie. With their tender, baked apple shells filled with sweet and flavorful pie filling, they are sure to satisfy your dessert cravings. Whether you enjoy them plain or topped with ice cream, they are a perfect treat for any occasion. So why not give them a try and experience the joy of pie baked apples yourself?
Pie Baked Apples
Ingredients
- 4 apples like Pippin , Mutsu, or Braeburn, and 1 additional apple if necessary
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons of dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 store-bought pie crust (refrigerated) , half of a 14.1-ounce box
- 1 beaten egg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
- Cut the top 1/2 inch off of 4 apples.
- Using a melon baller or spoon, scoop out the inside of the apples and set aside, leaving 1/4 inch of flesh next to the skin.
- Remove the cores and seeds from the scooped-out apples and discard.
- Coarsely chop the scooped fruit and place it in a medium bowl, making sure to have at least 1 1/2 cups. If you don't have enough, peel, core, and dice an additional apple and add it to the bowl.
- Sprinkle lemon juice over the chopped fruit and toss to coat.
- Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the bowl and mix well.
- Divide the filling evenly among the hollowed-out apples.
- Roll out the pie crust and cut it into 1/4-inch-thick strips using a pastry wheel.
- Brush a light coating of egg wash along the top edge of each apple.
- Weave the strips of pie crust into a lattice pattern on top of each apple, using the egg wash to help stick the strips together.
- Lightly brush the top of each lattice with the remaining egg wash.
- Place the stuffed apples in an 8-by-8-inch baking dish and pour 1 inch of water into the
