The scent of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen can turn any ordinary day into a cozy moment worth celebrating. Inspired by this bliss, I’ve created an easy recipe for Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon, a healthy dessert that marries warm spices with the natural sweetness of apples. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a delightful treat that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a calming weekend breakfast. This wholesome dessert is not only simple to make but also allows for plenty of creative variations—think about tossing in some nuts or drizzling a bit of honey! As the apples caramelize to a tender finish, you’ll be reminded that sometimes the simplest pleasures are the most satisfying. Ready to fill your home with an inviting aroma and bring a joyful taste to your table? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Baked Apple Slices Irresistible?
Comforting Aroma: Picture the sweet fragrance of cinnamon and apples wafting through your kitchen, instantly creating a cozy atmosphere.
Quick and Easy: In just 35 minutes, you can prepare a delightful dessert that suits busy schedules while impressing your family or guests.
Healthy Choice: Made with naturally sweet apples and minimal added sugar, this dish is a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies your sweet tooth.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve these baked apple slices warm over oatmeal, yogurt, or pancakes for breakfast, or enjoy them solo as a sweet treat.
Creative Flair: Experiment with different toppings and mix-ins, like nuts or a drizzle of honey, to create your own signature version.
This recipe is not just about dessert; it celebrates simple pleasures that elevate everyday meals.
Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon Ingredients
• Note: Gather these pantry staples to create a wholesome delight!
For the Apples
- Apples – Firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best for that perfect natural sweetness.
For the Coating
- Cinnamon – The star of the dish, adding warmth and flavor that makes this dessert unforgettable.
- Sweetener (optional) – Use maple syrup for a sugar-free alternative or adjust the quantity based on your chosen apple’s sweetness.
- Pinch of Salt – This enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness beautifully.
With these simple Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon ingredients, you’ll create a comforting treat that resonates with cozy vibes!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will ensure your Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon come out easily and maintain their shape while baking.
Step 2: Wash and Core Apples
Next, take your firm apples and wash them thoroughly under cool water to remove any dirt or residues. Once clean, carefully use an apple corer or knife to remove the cores, creating a cavity in the center. This step is essential for achieving tender slices that will hold up beautifully during baking.
Step 3: Slice Apples
Now, slice the cored apples into approximately ¼-inch thick pieces. Ensure the slices are uniform in thickness so they bake evenly, providing that perfect tenderness. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline for this task to achieve consistent slices quickly.
Step 4: Mix Coating
In a medium mixing bowl, combine your cinnamon, optional sweetener, and a pinch of salt. Use a whisk or a fork to mix these ingredients thoroughly, creating a fragrant coating that will complement your apple slices. The blend of cinnamon and sweetener will enhance the natural flavor of the apples as they bake.
Step 5: Coat Apples
Place the apple slices into the bowl with the cinnamon mixture and gently toss them until they’re evenly coated. This step ensures every slice is infused with the warm, aromatic flavors of the Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon. Make sure to handle the apples with care to avoid breaking them.
Step 6: Arrange Apples for Baking
Once coated, arrange the apple slices in a single layer in your greased baking dish. Overlapping slightly is fine, but try to distribute them evenly for consistent baking. This will allow the apples to caramelize beautifully and cook uniformly, resulting in a delicious dessert.
Step 7: Bake the Apples
Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and let the apples bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them and look for a glossy texture and slight bubbling around the edges; this indicates they’re caramelizing and becoming tender.
Step 8: Check for Doneness
Start checking the Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon around the 20-minute mark. Use a fork to gently test the tenderness of the apples; they should be soft but still hold their shape. Avoid overbaking, as this can result in mushy apples that lose their delightful texture.
Step 9: Serve Warm
Once baked to perfection, allow the apples to rest briefly before serving. Enjoy them warm as they make a delightful dessert on their own or a sweet topping over yogurt, oatmeal, or pancakes. Their bright, inviting flavor will surely bring smiles to your table!
Expert Tips for Baked Apple Slices
Choose Firm Apples: Use firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to prevent mushy results when baking your Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon.
Uniform Slices: Aim for ¼-inch thick slices to ensure even baking; inconsistency can lead to some apples being overcooked while others remain firm.
Check Doneness Wisely: Start checking for tenderness at the 20-minute mark to avoid overbaking and losing that delightful texture.
Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to sprinkle in some nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon for added depth when making your Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon.
Make-Easy Ahead: Prep the apple mixture in advance and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, making it a quick bake right before serving!
How to Store and Freeze Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon
Fridge: Store leftover Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the apple slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy the baked apple slices again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
Make-Ahead: You can also prepare the sliced apples and coating a day in advance, then store them separately in the fridge for a quick bake whenever you’re ready!
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon are perfect for busy weeknights and can be effortlessly prepped ahead! You can slice the apples and toss them with the cinnamon and sweetener mixture up to 24 hours in advance. To maintain their quality and prevent browning, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dessert, simply arrange the prepared apple slices in the greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This way, you can have a deliciously warm treat with minimal effort, making your meal prep seamless and stress-free!
Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on this comforting dessert!
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Dairy-Free: Swap regular yogurt for almond or coconut yogurt for a creamy topping that’s still light and refreshing.
Try these dairy-free options if you’re looking for something indulgent yet wholesome! -
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple mixture for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
The nuts provide a lovely contrast to the tender apples, making each bite a textural delight. -
Spiced Twist: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for an aromatic kick.
This subtle change transforms the flavor profile, evoking cozy thoughts of autumn gatherings. -
Maple Sweetness: Use pure maple syrup instead of regular sweeteners for a rich, warm sweetness.
This swap not only enhances flavor but also offers a beautiful glaze as the apples bake. -
Citrus Zest: A sprinkle of lemon or orange zest can brighten the flavors beautifully and add a refreshing twist.
Citrus works wonders in lifting the warmth of the cinnamon, balancing the sweetness. -
Baked Oatmeal: Top the warm apple slices with a quick oat crumble mixture for a comforting baked dessert.
Combine oats, a bit of flour, and butter for a delightful crisp layer over your apples. -
Serve with Yogurt: Pair the finished dish with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess.
This pairing makes for a satisfying breakfast option, bringing a lovely balance to the sweetness. -
Over Pancakes: Transform your breakfast by blanketing pancakes or waffles with these baked apple wonders.
Imagine stacking a warm pancake, topped generously with caramelized apples—pure bliss!
Explore these variations and personalize your Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon to make them your own! If you’re searching for more ideas, consider checking out my Savory Bread Pudding or some delightful Iced Cinnamon Whiskey to accompany your treats.
What to Serve with Easy Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon
Dive into a world of culinary delight as you complete your meal with these perfect pairings!
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, rich ice cream melts gently over warm slices, creating a delightful contrast and enhancing the cinnamon flavors.
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Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt adds a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the apples, making it a nutritious and satisfying treat.
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Savory Oatmeal: Serving them over a bowl of oatmeal creates a delightful breakfast, adding sweet warmth to your morning routine.
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Whipped Cream: A cloud of light, fluffy whipped cream adds a hint of luxury and sure-to-please sweetness that pairs beautifully with the warm apples.
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Chai Latte: The spiced warmth of a chai latte complements the cinnamon in the baked apple slices, making it a cozy drink choice to warm you from the inside out.
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Toasted Nuts: Sprinkling toasted pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that beautifully enhances the tender apple slices.
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Fruit Salad: A side of fresh fruit salad brings added freshness and textures while balancing the warm, spiced flavors of the baked apples.
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Ginger Tea: A soothing cup of ginger tea offers a delightful contrast to the apple’s sweetness while warming you and enhancing your dessert experience.
Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith for the best results. These apples hold their shape when baking and provide a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness. Soft varieties like McIntosh may turn mushy, which we want to avoid!
How should I store leftover baked apple slices?
To keep your Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This will maintain their texture and flavor, making them easy to reheat and enjoy later!
Can I freeze baked apple slices?
Very! To freeze, first let the baked apple slices cool completely. Then, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer the slices into a freezer bag and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat in the oven to restore that warm, comforting taste!
How do I know when the apple slices are done baking?
Begin checking your Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon at the 20-minute mark. They are done when they are fork-tender but still hold their shape, and you see a glossy texture with bubbly juices around the edges. Avoid overbaking to ensure they don’t turn mushy!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the apple slices and the cinnamon mixture in advance. Just toss the cut apples with the mixture and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This way, you can pop them in the oven for a quick and easy dessert when you’re ready!
Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon for a Cozy Dessert Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish.
- Wash the apples thoroughly and core them.
- Slice the cored apples into approximately ¼-inch thick pieces.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cinnamon, sweetener, and salt.
- Coat the apple slices in the mixture.
- Arrange the coated slices in a single layer in the baking dish.
- Bake the apples for about 20-25 minutes.
- Check for doneness; apples should be tender but hold their shape.
- Allow to rest briefly before serving warm.
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