The arrival of autumn heralds a bountiful harvest of crisp, juicy apples. While there are numerous ways to enjoy this seasonal delight, one of the most cherished is undoubtedly baked cinnamon apple slices. The warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as these sweet and spiced apples bake is a true testament to the joys of fall.
Baking cinnamon apple slices is a straightforward process that requires minimal ingredients and equipment. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds and impress your guests. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of making baked cinnamon apple slices, offer tips for selecting the best apples, and explore various serving options to suit every palate.
Selecting the Perfect Apples
The key to making exceptional baked cinnamon apple slices lies in choosing the right apples. Not all apples are created equal, and different varieties offer unique flavors and textures. Here are some apple varieties that work exceptionally well for this recipe:
Granny Smith: These tart green apples provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the sugar and cinnamon. They hold their shape well during baking, resulting in tender yet slightly firm slices.
Honeycrisp: With their natural sweetness and crisp texture, Honeycrisp apples are a favorite for many. They infuse the dish with a delightful sweetness and maintain their juiciness when baked.
Jonagold: Jonagold apples are a hybrid of Jonathan and Golden Delicious apples. They strike a balance between sweetness and tartness, making them a versatile choice for baked apple slices.
Cortland: Cortland apples are known for their snow-white flesh, making them an aesthetically pleasing option. They have a mild flavor and hold their shape during baking.
Fuji: Fuji apples are sweet and slightly tart, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer sweeter baked apples.
Braeburn: These apples offer a unique combination of sweet and tart flavors, along with a crisp texture that holds up well when baked.
See Also: Gala Apples vs. Granny Smith: Which is Healthier?
Baked Cinnamon Apple Slices
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Apple corer or a paring knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking dish or ovenproof skillet
- Aluminum Foil
- Oven mitts
- Serving plates or bowls
For the Cinnamon Apple Slices:
- 6-8 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- Chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
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Selecting the right apples is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness in your baked cinnamon apple slices. Some apple varieties that work well for this recipe include Granny Smith for their tartness, Honeycrisp for their sweetness, or Gala for a milder flavor. Feel free to mix and match apples for a more complex taste.
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's ready when your apple slices are prepared.
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Using an apple corer or a paring knife, remove the cores from the apples. Then, slice the apples into 1/4-inch thick slices. You can peel the apples if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients form a smooth and fragrant cinnamon sugar mixture.
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Add the sliced apples to the bowl with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Gently toss the apples to ensure they are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture. The lemon juice will not only enhance the flavor but also help prevent the apples from browning.
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Using a slotted spoon, transfer the coated apple slices to a baking dish or ovenproof skillet. Arrange them in an even layer to ensure even baking.
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Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, sealing it tightly around the edges. This will trap steam inside, helping the apples soften as they bake. Place the covered dish in the preheated oven.
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Bake the covered apple slices for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the apples are tender and easily pierced with a fork. The baking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your slices and the apple variety used.
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Carefully remove the aluminum foil, taking care to avoid the hot steam. Return the uncovered apple slices to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. This step allows the top to caramelize slightly, adding a delightful crunch and depth of flavor to your dessert.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the baked cinnamon apple slices from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Spoon them into individual plates or bowls, and if desired, top them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans make for a lovely garnish.
Tips for Perfect Baked Cinnamon Apple Slices
Choose the Right Apples: Select apple varieties that are suitable for baking, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Jonagold, or Braeburn. Each has its unique flavor profile and texture, so consider your preferences.
Uniform Slicing: Aim for uniform apple slices to ensure even cooking. You can use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to achieve consistent thickness.
Fresh Lemon Juice: After slicing the apples, toss them with a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. This not only adds a bright, citrusy flavor but also prevents the apples from browning.
Proper Seasoning: Mix your spices, sugar, and any other dry ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the apples. This ensures even distribution of flavor.
Adjust Spices to Taste: Don’t be afraid to customize the amount of cinnamon and other spices to suit your preferences. Taste the mixture and adjust accordingly.
Use Melted Butter: Drizzle the apple slices with melted butter and toss them to coat evenly. This adds richness and helps the spices adhere to the apples.
Preheat the Oven: Ensure your oven is properly preheated to the recommended temperature (usually around 350°F or 175°C) before placing the apples inside. This ensures even baking.
Single Layer: Arrange the seasoned apple slices in a single layer in your baking dish or skillet. Overlapping them slightly is fine, as they will shrink while baking.
Optional Topping: If you’re adding a crumble topping, make sure it’s evenly distributed over the apple slices for a delightful crunch.
Keep an Eye on Baking Time: The exact baking time may vary depending on your apple variety and slice thickness. Check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the apples; they should be tender but not mushy.
Cool Slightly Before Serving: Allow the baked cinnamon apple slices to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps them set and makes them easier to handle.
Serve with Complementary Accompaniments: Consider serving your apple slices with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, caramel sauce, or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.
Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave for a warm, comforting treat.
FAQs About Making Baked Cinnamon Apple Slices
Q1. What types of apples are best for baked cinnamon apple slices?
The best apples for baked cinnamon apple slices are those that maintain their texture and provide a balance of sweetness and tartness. Some popular choices include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Jonagold, Braeburn, Cortland, and Fuji. You can also mix different varieties for a more complex flavor.
Q2. How do I prevent the apple slices from browning?
To prevent apple slices from browning, toss them with a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice immediately after slicing. The citric acid in the lemon juice helps inhibit oxidation and keeps the apples looking fresh.
Q3. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can make baked cinnamon apple slices in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q4. Can I freeze baked cinnamon apple slices?
While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can freeze baked apple slices for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven to restore their texture.
Q5. How do I know when the apples are done baking?
You can check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into the apples. They should be tender but not mushy. The edges may also turn slightly golden brown. Baking times may vary depending on the thickness of your apple slices and the type of apples used.
Q6. Can I customize the spices in this recipe?
Absolutely! The recipe can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with the amount of cinnamon and other spices, such as nutmeg, cloves, or allspice, to create your desired flavor profile.
Q7. What are some serving suggestions?
Baked cinnamon apple slices can be enjoyed on their own or served with various accompaniments. Popular choices include vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, caramel sauce, and chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans).
Conclusion
Baked cinnamon apple slices are a quintessential autumn treat that captures the essence of the season. With the right choice of apples and a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dessert or side dish that will be cherished by friends and family alike.
This versatile recipe allows for creativity, whether you prefer your apples with a crumble topping, a scoop of ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel. The warm, comforting aroma of baked cinnamon apples will evoke fond memories of cozy gatherings and crisp fall days.
So, embrace the season, head to the orchard, and bring the taste of autumn into your home with these delectable baked cinnamon apple slices. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a taste of fall, this timeless recipe will surely become a staple in your repertoire. Enjoy!