Baked Apples with Honey and Walnuts

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

   💡 Tip: Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even baking.
2. 2

   Wash the apples. Using an apple corer or a small knife, carefully core each apple from the top, removing the seeds and core but leaving the bottom intact to create a cavity for the filling. You can also cut the apples in half horizontally and scoop out the core.

3. 3

   In a small bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well to create the filling.

   💡 Tip: Toast the walnuts lightly before chopping for enhanced flavor.
4. 4

   Spoon the walnut-honey mixture into the cavity of each apple. Top each filled apple with a few small pieces of butter.

5. 5

   Place the prepared apples in a baking dish. Pour the 1/2 cup of water into the bottom of the dish. This will create steam and help the apples cook evenly.

   💡 Tip: A cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven works well for baking apples.
6. 6

   Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork and the filling is bubbly. The baking time will vary depending on the size and type of apple.

   ⏱️ 30-40 minutes
7. 7

   Carefully remove the apples from the oven. Spoon some of the pan juices over the apples before serving.

   💡 Tip: Serve warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓Choose firm apples that hold their shape well, such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala.
• ✓Adjust the amount of honey and spices to your personal preference.
• ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon of raisins or dried cranberries to the filling.

🔄 Variations

• Add a splash of brandy or rum to the filling for an adult twist.
• Stuff with a mixture of ricotta cheese, raisins, and cinnamon for a different creamy filling.