This warm and comforting dessert is perfect for cozy evenings or casual gatherings. With a delightful mix of tender baked apples and a crunchy, buttery topping, it’s sure to become a favorite treat in your kitchen.
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time45 min
Total Time55 min
Difficulty
Hard
Best Cooking Tips
Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and tang.
Make sure to spread the topping evenly for a consistent crisp texture.
Let the dish cool slightly before serving to allow the juices to thicken.
Ingredients
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Why This Recipe Is So Good
This dessert combines warm, tender apples with a crunchy, buttery topping. It’s easy to make and brings cozy flavors that remind you of home. Perfect for any season, it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels both comforting and special.
Step 1
Warm your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8x8-inch baking dish with some cooking spray. In a bowl, mix together the cream cheese, brown sugar, maple syrup, walnuts, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, and allspice until everything is nicely combined.
Step 2
Place the apples cut-side up in the baking dish, using pieces from the cores to help them stand upright if needed. Drop about a teaspoon and a half of butter into the hollow center of each apple, then spoon half of the cream cheese mixture over the top, filling the center and covering the apple’s surface.
Step 3
Pop the apples into the oven and bake until they start to soften, which should take around 35 minutes. After that, sprinkle granola over the apples, gently pressing it into the filling. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes or so, until the apples are tender and the granola is golden and crisp.
54
people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Serving Guide
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It also pairs well with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
How To Refrigerate This Dish
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the topping crispy, or microwave briefly if you’re in a hurry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work well and hold their shape during baking.
What can I substitute for cream cheese if I don’t have any?
You can use mascarpone, ricotta, or Greek yogurt as a creamy alternative.
Is it okay to use chopped pecans instead of walnuts?
Absolutely, pecans make a great substitute and add a slightly different flavor.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the apples and cream cheese mixture, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I know when the apples are done baking?
The apples should be tender when pierced with a fork and the granola topping golden and crisp.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, use dairy-free cream cheese and butter substitutes.
Is it necessary to grease the baking dish?
Yes, greasing prevents sticking and helps with easy cleanup.
Can I skip the granola topping?
You can omit granola, but it adds a nice crunch and texture to the dish.
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