Why You’ll Love Almond Butter Baked Apple Recipe
Almond Butter Baked Apples are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. They’re naturally sweetened, gluten-free, and packed with fiber and healthy fats. This recipe requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dessert or a wholesome breakfast. The combination of warm baked apple and creamy almond butter is truly irresistible.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji)
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Almond butter
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Maple syrup or honey
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Ground cinnamon
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Rolled oats (optional, for added texture)
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Chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts, optional)
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Raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
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Coconut oil or butter (optional, for added richness)
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Vanilla extract (optional)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Core the apples, leaving the bottom intact to form a well.
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In a small bowl, mix almond butter, maple syrup (or honey), and cinnamon. Add oats, nuts, and dried fruit if using.
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Spoon the almond butter mixture into the hollow center of each apple.
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Place the apples in a baking dish and add a splash of water to the bottom to keep them moist while baking.
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Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes or until the apples are tender.
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Remove the foil and bake for another 5–10 minutes to brown the tops slightly.
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Let them cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35–40 minutes
Total time: 45–50 minutes
Variations
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Use peanut butter or cashew butter instead of almond butter for a different flavor.
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Add dark chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate for a dessert twist.
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Replace raisins with chopped dates or dried cherries.
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Sprinkle with granola just before serving for added crunch.
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Add a scoop of vanilla Greek yogurt or dairy-free ice cream on top.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm them in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
Avoid freezing as the texture of the apples may become mushy.
FAQs
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith hold up well during baking and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apples and store them in the fridge before baking. Bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.
Is almond butter healthy?
Yes, almond butter is a good source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, making it a nutritious choice for this recipe.
Can I use sweeteners other than maple syrup or honey?
You can use agave syrup or a low-sugar alternative like stevia or monk fruit sweetener, adjusting amounts to taste.
Do I need to peel the apples?
No, keeping the skin on helps the apples hold their shape and adds fiber. However, you can peel them if you prefer.
What can I serve with these baked apples?
They pair well with yogurt, ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for dessert.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, you can use sunflower seed butter or oat butter instead of almond butter for a nut-free option.
How do I know when the apples are done?
They should be fork-tender but not mushy. The filling will be warm and slightly golden on top.
Can I add spices besides cinnamon?
Absolutely. Try nutmeg, ginger, or allspice for a more complex flavor.
Are these baked apples good for breakfast?
Yes, they make a wholesome breakfast, especially when paired with oats, yogurt, or a sprinkle of granola.
Conclusion
Almond Butter Baked Apples are a simple yet satisfying recipe that brings together comfort and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a healthier dessert or a cozy snack, this dish offers warmth, flavor, and versatility with every bite. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy apples.
Almond Butter Baked Apple
Warm, tender, and naturally sweet, Almond Butter Baked Apples are a wholesome treat combining the rich nuttiness of almond butter with the goodness of baked apples. Ideal as a healthy dessert or nourishing snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: 45–50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 4 apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup rolled oats (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts, optional)
- 2 tbsp raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or butter (optional)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- 2–4 tbsp water (for baking dish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Core the apples, leaving the bottom intact to create a well for the filling.
- In a small bowl, mix almond butter, maple syrup (or honey), and cinnamon. Stir in oats, nuts, dried fruit, coconut oil, and vanilla extract if using.
- Fill each apple with the almond butter mixture, pressing it down gently.
- Place the apples in a baking dish and add a splash of water (2-4 tablespoons) to the bottom of the dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the apples are tender.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes to lightly brown the tops.
- Let the apples cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use peanut or cashew butter as alternatives to almond butter.
- Add chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate for a dessert twist.
- Sprinkle with granola before serving for added crunch.
- Serve with vanilla Greek yogurt or dairy-free ice cream.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat before serving.
- Do not freeze as apples may become mushy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 baked apple
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
