Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries: 5 Comforting Steps

Oh my goodness, have you ever tried *Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries*? This dish is a total game-changer! I mean, who would’ve thought that the sweet, juicy goodness of baked apples could pair so perfectly with the creamy, tangy feta and the delightful sweetness of honey? The cranberries add a lovely pop of tartness that really rounds out the flavors. Trust me, your kitchen will smell like a cozy autumn afternoon while these are baking! I’ve made this dessert for friends and family countless times, and it never fails to impress. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for a dinner party. Seriously, once you give this a try, you’ll be hooked on this delicious combination!

Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful baked apples. Make sure to gather everything before you start so you can just dive right in!

  • 4 medium apples – I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their firmness and tartness!
  • 100g feta cheese – Crumbled, this adds that creamy, tangy kick.
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries – These give a lovely burst of sweetness and tartness.
  • 1/4 cup honey – Drizzle in some sweetness; adjust based on how sweet you like it!
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon – A warm spice that really enhances the apple flavor.
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional) – For a little crunch and nutty flavor, but you can skip them if you prefer.

Don’t forget, the quality of your ingredients can make all the difference in this simple dessert. Fresh, firm apples and good-quality feta will truly elevate your dish! Happy cooking!

How to Prepare *Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries*

Alright, let’s get those apples ready for some deliciousness! This recipe is super straightforward, and I’m here to guide you through each step. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create this delightful dessert!

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for baking those apples to perfection!
  2. Core the apples: Take your medium apples and carefully core them. You want to remove the seeds but keep the shape intact. A melon baller or a paring knife works great for this!
  3. Arrange the apples: Place the cored apples upright in a baking dish. If you have a dish that’s slightly smaller than the apples, that’s perfect! It helps them stand tall while baking.
  4. Mix the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, honey, cinnamon, and walnuts (if you’re using them). Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed and coated in that sweet honey!
  5. Stuff the apples: Now comes the fun part! Generously stuff each cored apple with the feta mixture. Don’t be shy—pack it in there! The more, the merrier!
  6. Drizzle with honey: Once your apples are stuffed, drizzle a little extra honey over the top of each one. This will create a lovely glaze while they bake.
  7. Bake: Pop the baking dish in the oven and let those apples bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re tender and can be easily pierced with a fork!
  8. Serve warm: Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for just a minute before serving. These baked apples are best enjoyed warm, maybe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for that extra indulgence!

And just like that, you’ve got yourself a beautiful dessert that’s bursting with flavor! You’ll love how the sweet, savory, and tart elements come together in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, *Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries* is a dessert that you’ll absolutely adore for so many reasons!

  • Simple Preparation: This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for any night of the week! You don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen to impress your friends or family.
  • Flavor Explosion: The sweet apples, creamy feta, and tart cranberries create a delicious harmony of flavors that’s simply irresistible.
  • Healthy Indulgence: Packed with nutrients from the apples and cranberries, you can enjoy this dessert without the guilt!
  • Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness or add nuts, making it a versatile treat for everyone’s taste buds.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, this dessert fits right in!

Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be dreaming about these baked apples long after they’re gone!

Tips for Success

To make your *Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries* truly shine, here are a few pro tips that I swear by!

  • Choosing Apples: Go for firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape beautifully during baking and have just the right balance of sweetness and tartness.
  • Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of honey based on your preference. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more, but if you prefer a more balanced flavor, dial it down!
  • Serving Suggestions: For an extra indulgent treat, serve your baked apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top can elevate the flavors even more!
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the apples just before baking. This is a great time-saver for gatherings!

With these tips, you’re all set for success in creating a delightful dessert that will impress everyone!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying *Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries*, it’s nice to know what you’re indulging in! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (one stuffed apple):

  • Calories: 220
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 310mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy this delicious dessert knowing it has some wholesome goodness packed in!

FAQ Section

I’ve got you covered with some common questions you might have about making *Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries*! Let’s dive in!

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While feta adds that creamy, tangy flavor, you can experiment with goat cheese or even ricotta for a different twist. Just keep in mind the flavor profile you want to achieve!

What if I don’t have cranberries?

No worries! You can substitute dried cranberries with raisins, chopped dates, or even fresh berries if you have them on hand. Each will give a new flavor and texture!

Are these baked apples gluten-free?

Yes, they are! The ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone with gluten sensitivities.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

If you want to go vegan, you can substitute the feta cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and use maple syrup or agave in place of honey. It’ll still be delicious!

Can I make these ahead of time?

You sure can! Prepare the stuffed apples in advance and store them in the fridge. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to bake! This is a great time-saver for gatherings.

With these tips, you’ll be all set to enjoy these delightful baked apples without any hiccups!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got your delicious *Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries* ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them to elevate the experience! These apples are delightful on their own, but pairing them with a few complementary dishes can take your dessert game to the next level.

First off, you can’t go wrong with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. The cold creaminess perfectly contrasts with the warm, baked apples. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, try serving them with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for that extra flair!

For a lovely beverage pairing, consider a warm cup of spiced cider or a nice herbal tea. The warm spices will harmonize beautifully with the flavors of the apples. And if you’re in the mood for something a little stronger, a glass of dessert wine or a rich port can also complement the sweet and savory notes of this dish. Enjoy every bite and sip!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries: 5 Comforting Steps

  • Author: Lisa
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A simple dessert featuring baked apples stuffed with feta cheese, honey, and cranberries.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium apples
  • 100g feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Core the apples and place them in a baking dish.
  3. In a bowl, mix feta cheese, cranberries, honey, cinnamon, and walnuts.
  4. Stuff the mixture into the cored apples.
  5. Drizzle additional honey over the apples.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the apples are tender.
  7. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
  • Adjust the sweetness by varying the honey amount.
  • Top with vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 apple
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 310mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Baked Apples, Feta, Honey, Cranberries, Dessert

Spread the love

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating