Easy Cinnamon Baked Apples: Naturally Sweet, Caramelized & Simple
Cozy sweetness comes together with minimal cleanup and pantry-friendly ingredients.
Easy Cinnamon Baked Apples
Celebrate apple season (or any cozy evening) with Easy Cinnamon Baked Apples—a naturally sweet, gluten- and grain-free dessert made with simple pantry staples. Ready in just one bowl, these tender, spiced apples are caramelized to perfection and bursting with warmth and comfort for all occasions.
Why This Recipe Works
- Simple Process: Everything comes together in one bowl then heads to the baking dish—minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
- Just 9 Ingredients: Each component is a household staple; no fancy tools or specialty groceries required.
- Flexible Sweeteners: Naturally sweetened with coconut sugar, with options for maple syrup or stevia if desired.
- Tender & Cinnamony: A dreamy balance of soft apples and warming spice in every bite.
- Gluten- and Grain-Free: Perfect for special diets and holiday gatherings.
The Story Behind the Recipe
Apple season brings with it sweet anticipation of warm, spiced desserts. This recipe originated from the wish for a healthier, simpler take on classic apple pie—stripped down to the essentials while retaining all the nostalgic flavor. By combining both tart and sweet apple varieties, layering on aromatic spice, and using minimal equipment, the result is pure, cozy kitchen magic without the fuss.
Ingredients: Quick Reference Table
| Ingredient | Purpose | Substitution Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Apples (mix of tart & sweet) | Main base, provides texture & tang | Any apple variety—mix for best flavor |
| Coconut sugar | Natural sweetness, caramel notes | Maple syrup or stevia |
| Cinnamon | Signature warmth | None (essential!) |
| Fresh ginger | Bright, zesty undertone | Ground ginger (see notes below) |
| Nutmeg | Extra depth of spice | Allspice or more cinnamon |
| Lemon juice | Balances sweetness, adds tang | Apple cider vinegar (tiny amount) |
| Sea salt | Enhances flavors | Kosher or table salt |
| Cornstarch (or arrowroot) | Thickens the sauce | Arrowroot or tapioca starch |
| Coconut oil or apple juice (optional) | Extra richness or moisture | Butter or water |
See recipe notes for substitutions and options.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Apples:
- Peel, core, and thinly slice a medley of tart and sweet apples. Using both types creates a nuanced flavor in the final dish.
- Add the sliced apples directly to your baking dish for fewer bowls to wash.
- Add the Spices & Sweetener:
- Sprinkle on ground cinnamon, fresh (or ground) ginger, and a pinch of nutmeg to distribute their warmth evenly throughout the apples.
- Pour in the coconut sugar for gentle, caramelized sweetness. Maple syrup or stevia can be used for different dietary needs.
- Balance & Thicken:
- Drizzle lemon juice over the apples to cut through the sweetness and brighten the flavor.
- Season with a touch of sea salt to enhance every note.
- Sprinkle cornstarch (or arrowroot) to thicken the juices as the apples bake, resulting in a glossy, gooey sauce.
- Optional Enhancements:
- Add a splash of coconut oil or apple juice for extra richness or moisture. These are optional but recommended for an indulgent touch.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes. This gentle roasting steams the apples and draws out their natural sugars.
- Uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes. This final step caramelizes the juices and intensifies the flavors, giving you irresistibly tender apples with golden edges.
Tip: For extra crispiness, broil briefly at the end—but watch closely to avoid burning.
What Makes These Apples Special?
- Cinnamony: Cinnamon is the star, delivering comfort and classic fall scent and flavor.
- Naturally Sweetened: Using coconut sugar or maple syrup, these apples showcase their innate sweetness without processed sugars.
- Caramelized Perfection: Covered baking softens the fruit, while a final uncovered roast locks in richness and caramel notes.
- Satisfying & Comforting: Each bite is soft yet slightly chewy, offering all the charm of pie filling with none of the fuss.
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
- Serve warm or room temperature for optimal texture and flavor.
- Enjoy solo as a light weeknight dessert or indulgent breakfast.
- For a decadent treat, top with vegan vanilla ice cream—store-bought works great (try coconut-based varieties)—or a dollop of non-dairy whipped cream.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts or granola for crunch.
- Try over oatmeal, pancakes, or alongside savory dishes for a sweet contrast.
Ingredient & Substitution Notes
- Apple Variety: A combination of tart (like Granny Smith) and sweet (like Fuji or Honeycrisp) apples produces the best results—tart apples hold their shape, sweet apples add juiciness.
- Fresh Ginger vs. Ground: If using ground ginger, substitute
1/2 tsp groundfor3/4 tsp freshginger. - Sweeteners: Coconut sugar provides depth, while maple syrup brings a syrupy quality. Stevia is good for lower sugar needs (adjust quantity to taste).
- Starch: Arrowroot works equally well as cornstarch; avoid flour for a lighter, gluten-free texture.
- Oil/Moisture: If skipping coconut oil, a splash of apple juice keeps the apples juicy.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate: Keeps in an airtight container up to 3 days. Gently reheat to enjoy warm.
- Freeze: While possible, texture will be softer after thawing—best enjoyed fresh.
- Make-Ahead: To prepare ahead, slice apples and combine with all dry ingredients except lemon juice. Add liquids just before baking.
Nutrition Highlights
What others are reading
- Plant-Based & Vegan: Naturally dairy free and egg free.
- Gluten & Grain Free: Ideal for those avoiding gluten or grains.
- Fiber Rich: Apples offer dietary fiber and antioxidants.
- Customizable Sweetness: Adjust sugar level and topping to your needs.
Nutrition is an estimate, calculated using the lower amount of apples and without optional toppings or coconut oil.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What kind of apples are best?
For a flavorful result, combine sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp with tart apples like Granny Smith. This balance keeps the filling lively and prevents mushiness.
Can I use other sweeteners?
Yes, maple syrup offers a deeper, more robust flavor, while stevia is suitable for lower sugar needs. Start with less and adjust to taste.
Can I make this ahead?
You can prep the apples and mix with the dry ingredients in advance. Add lemon juice and liquids before baking for best texture and flavor.
Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeling is highly recommended—unpeeled apples can become tough and chewy. However, if you prefer a rustic dish, leave the skins on (but expect a firmer texture).
Does this work as a breakfast?
Absolutely! Serve over oatmeal, granola, or non-dairy yogurt for a healthful breakfast bowl.
How do I make it oil-free?
Simply omit coconut oil and use a splash of apple juice or water to keep the apples moist. The result is still delicious and tender.
How do I thicken the sauce naturally?
Cornstarch or arrowroot acts as a natural thickening agent for a glossy, spoonable sauce. If you don’t have these, tapioca starch is a good alternative.
Recipe Notes
- Ginger Settings: For convenience, use ground ginger (1/2 tsp) instead of fresh (3/4 tsp).
- Toppings Shortcut: Store-bought vegan vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully if you want zero extra effort.
- Nutrition Calculation: Based on the smaller quantity of apples, without optional coconut oil, juice, sides, or ice cream.
- This dish also makes a lovely addition to autumn and winter holiday tables, or any time you crave comforting, spice-forward sweetness.
Variations & Adaptations
- Add Dried Fruit: Toss in raisins or cranberries for extra pop.
- Go Nutty: Top with pecans or walnuts for crunch and richness.
- Spice It Up: Shake in a little allspice or cardamom for added depth.
- Make Individual Portions: Fill hollowed-out apple halves, bake, and serve as single-serve treats.
Join the Conversation
Have you tried this recipe? Share your thoughts or personal twists below! Your feedback and ratings help others discover their new favorite fall dessert.
More Apple Inspiration
- Check out 18 Apple Recipes for Fall for more ways to enjoy the season’s best fruit—from crisps to cakes to salads.
References
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