Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Baked Apples with Pecan Streusel recipe is the ideal balance of soft, sweet apples and a crunchy, buttery streusel. The dish is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time while delivering maximum flavor. The nutty, cinnamon-sugar streusel topping adds a delightful texture and complements the soft, juicy apples perfectly. It’s a versatile dessert, perfect for serving warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzling with caramel sauce. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up fresh apples, especially when they’re in season.
Ingredients
- 6 medium apples (such as Gala or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Core the apples, removing the seeds, and set them in a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Spoon the streusel mixture generously over the apples, filling the centers and covering the tops.
- Pour about 1/4 cup of water into the bottom of the baking dish to help steam the apples as they bake.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the streusel is golden brown.
- Let the baked apples cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 40-45 minutes
- Total time: 55-60 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Add raisins or cranberries: For extra sweetness and a bit of tartness, toss in a handful of raisins or dried cranberries into the streusel mixture.
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce: After baking, drizzle with homemade or store-bought caramel sauce for a richer flavor.
- Use different nuts: Swap out the pecans for walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for a new twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the baked apples in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm.
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of apple, but sweeter apples like Gala or Honeycrisp are ideal. Tart apples like Granny Smith can also work if you prefer a tangier flavor.
2. Can I make the streusel ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the streusel mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
3. Can I use a different nut in the streusel topping?
Yes, feel free to swap the pecans for walnuts, almonds, or any other nut you prefer.
4. Can I bake these apples without the streusel topping?
Yes, you can bake the apples without the streusel for a simpler, lighter dessert. You can sprinkle some cinnamon and sugar inside the apples for added flavor.
5. Can I freeze the baked apples?
Yes, you can freeze the baked apples. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in a freezer-safe container. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
6. How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based butter and ensure the streusel mixture is free from dairy products.
7. Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar, though it may slightly alter the texture of the streusel.
8. Can I serve these apples cold?
While the baked apples are traditionally served warm, they can be enjoyed cold as well. They still taste delicious when chilled and can be served as a refreshing dessert in the summer months.
9. Can I bake the apples in advance and reheat them?
Yes, you can bake the apples in advance and reheat them in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
10. What is the best way to serve these baked apples?
You can serve the baked apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.
Conclusion
Baked Apples with Pecan Streusel is a simple yet flavorful dessert that combines the comforting warmth of baked apples with a crunchy, cinnamon-spiced topping. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday meal, a cozy night in, or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With endless variations and easy preparation, it’s a must-try for any apple lover.
PrintBaked Apples With Pecan Streusel
Baked Apples with Pecan Streusel combines tender baked apples with a cinnamon-sugar streusel topping, creating a warm and comforting dessert perfect for fall or holiday gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 6 medium apples (such as Gala or Honeycrisp)
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Core the apples: Core the apples, removing the seeds, and set them in a baking dish.
- Make the streusel: In a small bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Assemble the apples: Spoon the streusel mixture generously over the apples, filling the centers and covering the tops.
- Add water: Pour about 1/4 cup of water into the bottom of the baking dish to help steam the apples as they bake.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the streusel is golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Let the baked apples cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freeze cooled baked apples for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- If you prefer, you can add raisins or dried cranberries to the streusel for added sweetness and tartness.
- Make this recipe vegan by using plant-based butter and ensuring the streusel is dairy-free.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 baked apple
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg