When the air gets crisp and the apples are at their peak, there’s nothing more satisfying than the warm, cinnamon-scented goodness of baked apples. These Baked Apples Stuffed with Oatmeal & Brown Sugar have become a fall favorite in my kitchen.
The apples turn perfectly tender, and the filling, a mix of hearty oats, sweet brown sugar, and a touch of butter, soaks up the juices, creating a gooey, rich center that’s hard to resist. I love how this recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the apples without being overly sugary.
This recipe’s simplicity makes it special while still delivering such a comforting and cozy dessert. You only need a few ingredients, but the result is indulgent. The smell of apples, cinnamon, and caramelized sugar baking together fills the house with irresistible warmth.
Why I Love This Recipe?
- It’s quick to prepare, yet feels like a true homemade treat.
- The oats make it feel more wholesome, balancing out the sweetness.
- Cinnamon, apples, and brown sugar, it’s autumn in a bite.
- Swap in nuts or dried fruits for an extra twist!
Baked Apples with Oats and Brown Sugar Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 Medium Apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp Work Well
- 1/2 Cup Rolled Oats
- 1/4 Cup Brown Sugar
- 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- 1/4 Teaspoon Nutmeg
- 2 Tbsp Unsalted Butter Melted
- 1/4 Cup Chopped Walnuts Optional
- 1/4 Cup Raisins Optional
- 1/2 Tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 Cup Water
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Apples: Core the apples and create a hollow space in the center for the filling. Be sure not to pierce the bottom.
![[This image shows apples being cored with a paring knife, creating a hollow center without piercing the bottom.]](https://cdn.thefreshmancook.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Coring-the-Apples.webp)
- Mix Filling: In a bowl, mix Rolled Oats, Brown Sugar, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Melted Butter, Walnuts, Raisins, and Vanilla Extract until well combined.
![This image shows a spoon filling each cored apple with a generous amount of oat and brown sugar mixture.]](https://cdn.thefreshmancook.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Filling-the-Apples-with-Oat-Mixture.webp)
- Stuff Apples: Spoon the mixture into each apple, filling them to the top.
- Bake: Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish. Pour the Water into the bottom of the dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the apples are soft and the filling is golden.
- Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with a drizzle of honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Notes
- For added richness, serve with whipped cream or a scoop of yogurt.
- You can customize the filling with other nuts or dried fruits like cranberries.
- Use gluten-free oats to make the recipe gluten-free.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 258 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 27g |
| Sodium | 55mg |
What Kind of Apples Are Best for This Recipe?
Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work best as they hold their shape during baking and offer a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.
Do I Need to Peel the Apples?
No, you don’t have to peel the apples. Leaving the skin on helps the apples maintain their structure while baking, but you can peel them if you prefer a softer texture.
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
It’s best to use rolled oats for a chewier texture. Instant oats can become mushy when baked, but they can be used if that’s your preference.
How Long Do I Bake the Apples?
Typically, bake the apples for 30-40 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until they are tender but not falling apart. You can check by poking them with a fork.
Can I Add Nuts or Other Toppings?
Yes! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried fruit like raisins can add a nice crunch and extra flavor to the oat mixture. Sprinkle them on before baking for best results.