Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries is not just a dessert; it’s a warm embrace of flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends. This dish beautifully balances sweet and savory, making it perfect for any occasion. The creamy feta cheese pairs excellently with the sweet honey and tart cranberries. Plus, these apples are easy to prepare, making them an excellent option for a quick weeknight treat or a fancy dinner party dessert. The delightful aromas that fill your kitchen while they bake will make everyone eager to dig in!

How to Make Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

This recipe is straightforward and involves simple steps. If you follow along closely, you’ll have delicious, baked apples ready in no time.

Ingredients:

• 4 pieces Firm Apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
• 1 cup Feta Cheese (crumbled)
• 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries
• 1/4 cup Honey
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 2 tablespoons Butter
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Mint (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the apples will bake evenly and thoroughly.

2. Prepare the Apples: Wash the apples under cool water. Cut off the top quarter of each apple and carefully scoop out the core using a spoon or an apple corer. Be gentle so that you don’t break the skin.

3. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, honey, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until well mixed. This filling is the star of your dish, so make sure it is nicely blended.

4. Stuff the Apples: Take the mixture and generously stuff the apples with the filling, packing it in tightly. The more you can fit inside, the better!

5. Prepare for Baking: Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish. Add a small pat of butter on top of each apple. The butter will melt as they bake and add extra flavor.

6. Add Water and Cover: Pour a cup of water into the baking dish to help steam the apples. Then, cover the dish with aluminum foil. This step is crucial to keep the apples moist.

7. Bake the Apples: Put the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. Check the apples for tenderness; they should be soft but not falling apart.

8. Let Cool and Garnish: Once done, take the apples out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh mint just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.

How to Serve Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

Serving Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries is all about presentation. Place each stuffed apple on a dessert plate and drizzle any remaining honey from the baking dish over the top for a sweet glaze. If you like, you can add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side, as the contrast between the warm apples and the cold cream is delightful. This dish also looks lovely when garnished with a few mint leaves, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Timing:

Serve the baked apples warm, right out of the oven or after letting them cool slightly. They make a wonderful dessert after a hearty meal or you can enjoy them as a cozy snack on a chilly evening.

How to Store Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

If you have leftovers (though we doubt you will!), proper storage is key.

• Refrigeration: Allow the baked apples to cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about 2-3 days.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat the apples in the microwave for a few seconds or place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Keep in mind that the texture may slightly change after refrigeration, but the flavors will still be delicious!

Tips to Make Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries

1. Choosing Apples: Choose firm apples such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. Ensure they are fresh and free of blemishes to guarantee the best texture and flavor.

2. Feta Variations: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use goat cheese instead of feta. It will make the dish creamier, and still tastes wonderful when combined with cranberries and honey.

3. Add Nuts: For extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the filling. They add a delightful texture that contrasts with the softness of the baked apples.

4. Experiment with Spices: If you like spices, feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the filling for an additional flavor dimension.

5. Watch the Baking Time: Baking time may vary depending on the size and type of apples. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t become too mushy.

Variation

You can easily tweak this recipe to create different flavors! Consider using:

• Different Fruits: Instead of cranberries, try using raisins or chopped dates for a different taste profile. Each will add a unique sweetness to your dish.
• Sweeteners: For a healthier version, substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Cheese Swap: As mentioned earlier, goat cheese or even ricotta can work beautifully in this recipe.
• Gluten-Free Option: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith are great options due to their firmness and balanced flavor, you can use other apple varieties like Fuji, Braeburn, or Pink Lady. Just be mindful of the sweetness level, as some types may require adjustments to the amount of honey you use.

Can I make these apples ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the apples by scooping them out and mixing the filling a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, stuff the apples and follow the baking instructions. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time, as they will be cold from refrigeration.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

This specific recipe is not vegan due to the feta cheese and honey. However, you can easily make a vegan version by substituting the feta with a plant-based cheese and using agave syrup instead of honey. The result will still be a delicious and satisfying dessert!

What can I serve with these baked apples?

These baked apples can be served on their own or with accompaniments such as ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. If you’re feeling fancy, a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream would complement the flavors nicely.

How do I know when the apples are done?

The apples are ready when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. The skin should also be slightly wrinkled, and the filling should be bubbling. Just be careful not to overbake them, as they can become mushy.

Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries are not only delicious but also simple to prepare. These delightful treats will become a staple in your recipe collection, perfect for cozy nights at home or special dinner gatherings. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and savory, and watch your loved ones enjoy every bite!

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