Introduction
Maple Pecan Baked Apples are the epitome of holiday warmth—a comforting and wholesome dessert that brings the scent of cinnamon and maple into your kitchen. These tender baked apples are filled with a delicious mixture of oats, chopped pecans, warm spices, and a drizzle of pure maple syrup. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent yet is filled with nourishing, simple ingredients. Whether you’re serving them for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a cozy weekend gathering, these baked apples will wrap your taste buds in a cozy holiday hug.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Baked apples have long been a classic in kitchens across the world, particularly in Europe and North America, where apple orchards abound. In many cultures, apples represent abundance and warmth, making them a perfect symbol for holiday feasts. This modern version, with maple syrup and pecans, adds a North American twist that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of autumn harvests and festive gatherings.
Unique Ingredients and Flavors
These baked apples stand out thanks to their naturally sweet maple syrup and the rich crunch of pecans. The oat filling gives a rustic heartiness, while cinnamon and nutmeg add depth and seasonal cheer. The combination creates a symphony of soft, crunchy, spiced, and sweet, all nestled inside a tender roasted apple shell.
Cooking Techniques
The key technique here is baking the apples until tender but not mushy—just soft enough to spoon into easily. Core the apples carefully to create space for the filling while leaving the base intact to hold everything together. The filling is quickly mixed and then spooned generously into each apple. During baking, the apples release juice that mixes with the maple syrup for a naturally rich sauce.
Maple Pecan Baked Apples – Cozy Holiday Dessert
Description
These Maple Pecan Baked Apples are a healthy twist on a classic dessert. Naturally sweet, warmly spiced, and easy to prepare—comfort food at its best.
Ingredients for Maple Pecan Baked Apples
Main Ingredients
Optional for Serving
Instructions
Preparing the Apples
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Core the Apples
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Using a paring knife or apple corer, carefully remove the core from each apple, leaving the bottom intact to create a well for the filling.
Be gentle not to cut through the bottom of the apple to prevent leakage. -
Prepare the Baking Dish
Place the cored apples into a baking dish that fits them snugly. Lightly grease the bottom with coconut oil or butter to prevent sticking.
A snug fit ensures the apples bake evenly and don’t tip over.
Making the Filling
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Mix the Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine oats, pecans, maple syrup, melted coconut oil or butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well coated and slightly sticky.
Taste the filling before stuffing—it should be nutty, sweet, and spiced. -
Stuff the Apples
Spoon the mixture into the hollowed apples, pressing down gently to fill completely. Divide the filling evenly among the apples.
Don’t overpack—leave a bit of room at the top to prevent overflow during baking.
Baking the Apples
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Bake Until Tender
Pour a little water (about 1/4 inch) into the bottom of the baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until apples are soft but not collapsing.
Pierce with a knife to test doneness—there should be little resistance. -
Serve Warm
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped coconut cream if desired.
The filling will be hot—allow cooling slightly for safe eating.
Note
- You can swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- Add chopped dried cranberries or raisins to the filling for a fruity touch.
- For a richer flavor, use browned butter in place of regular melted butter.
- These baked apples are naturally gluten-free if using certified gluten-free oats.
- Try adding a pinch of ginger or cloves for extra holiday spice.
- A drizzle of almond butter over the top before serving adds indulgent richness.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven for a quick dessert.
- Make it vegan by using coconut oil and dairy-free yogurt or cream.
