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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Place the cored apples into a baking dish that fits them snugly. Lightly grease the bottom with coconut oil or butter to prevent sticking.
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.
Spoon the mixture into the hollowed apples, pressing down gently to fill completely. Divide the filling evenly among the apples.
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.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped coconut cream if desired.
These Maple Pecan Baked Apples are more than just dessert—they’re comfort in edible form. Perfect for chilly fall and winter nights, they fill your home with the scent of cinnamon and maple, and they nourish your soul as much as your body. Each bite offers the perfect balance of soft baked fruit, hearty oats, buttery pecans, and warming spices.
For an added layer of decadence, serve these apples with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Looking to make them breakfast-appropriate? Pair with a spoonful of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of extra oats. The filling itself can even be used for stuffed pears, if you’re feeling adventurous.
This recipe invites creative variation. Use pears instead of apples, swap pecans for hazelnuts, or try a splash of bourbon in the filling for a grown-up twist. Let your kitchen become your canvas, and remember—the joy is in the making as much as in the munching.