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Baked Apples for two

A cozy small-batch dessert filled with buttery brown sugar, warm spices, and a touch of crunch. Perfect for sharing — or not!
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Prep Time 4 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Course Dessert
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work great)
  • 2 tbsp butter, room temputure
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1/2 tsp apple pie spice or cinnamon (heaping)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1-2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts
  • 1-2 tbsp raisins or craisins
  • ½ to ¾ cup apple cider (or water)
  • Optional: drizzle of apple syrup or maple syrup for topping

Instructions
 

  • 1. Prepare the Apples
    Use a paring knife to cut a circle around the top of each apple, like removing a little “lid.” Scoop out the core and seeds with a small spoon or round measuring spoon, but go beyond just coring — hollow out the center to create a cavity about 1½ inches wide, leaving thick, sturdy walls so the apple holds its shape while baking.
    2. Make the Filling
    In a small bowl, mash together the butter, brown sugar, apple pie spice, and salt with a fork until smooth and well combined. Stir in the pecans (or walnuts) and raisins.
    3. Fill the Apples
    Divide the filling evenly between the two apples, pressing it firmly into the hollowed centers all the way down.
    4. Add Liquid
    Place the apples upright in a small baking dish. Pour apple cider (or water) into the dish until it reaches about halfway up the apples. Drizzle a little apple syrup or maple syrup over the tops if you like.
    5. Bake
    Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, or until the apples are tender and the filling is bubbling and caramelized.
    6. Serve
    Spoon the warm syrupy liquid from the pan over each apple before serving. They’re delicious with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of cream, or even plain — just soft, warm, and perfectly spiced.
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