Baked Apples with Cinnamon, Raisins, and Pecans Recipe

I absolutely love whipping up this Baked Apples with Cinnamon, Raisins, and Pecans Recipe whenever I want something cozy and comforting without too much fuss. There’s just something magical about soft, warm apples filled with sweet cinnamon, chewy raisins, and crunchy pecans that feels like an instant hug on a chilly day. You’ll find it’s a fantastic dessert to pull together when you want something sweet but still wholesome and naturally fruity.

When I first tried this recipe, it quickly became a family favorite, especially during fall and winter holidays. It shines as a simple yet impressive dessert for dinner guests or when you just crave a little treat that doesn’t weigh you down. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to customize, so you can make it your own with different nuts or dried fruits if you like.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Baked Apples with Cinnamon, Raisins, and Pecans Recipe come together in harmony — fruitiness from the apples, warmth from the cinnamon, chewy sweetness from the raisins, and crunchy, buttery pecans add texture. These simple pantry staples make it easy to whip up without last-minute store runs.

• Baking Apples: I prefer Rome Beauty or Golden Delicious because they hold their shape well while softening inside.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with warm spices.
• Cinnamon: A must for that classic cozy flavor; you can use ground or even try cinnamon sticks for infusion.
• Chopped Pecans: Optional but I love the crunch and nuttiness they bring to this recipe.
• Currants or Raisins: I usually grab raisins, chopped small, but currants work if you have them—they swell and taste juicy when baked.
• Butter: A little dot on top helps the filling brown and melt deliciously into the apples.
• Boiling Water: Used to create steam in the baking dish, keeping apples moist as they cook.

Variations

I enjoy mixing things up with this recipe depending on what I have on hand or what mood strikes me. You’ll find that small tweaks can bring out different flavors and textures, so don’t be afraid to play around.

• Walnuts Instead of Pecans: I swapped pecans for walnuts once and loved the earthier crunch it gave—great if pecans aren’t your favorite.
• Adding Ginger or Nutmeg: Throwing in a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg adds a lovely depth of flavor, especially during the holidays.
• Use Dried Cranberries or Chopped Dates: For a tart or richer sweetness twist, try cranberries or dates in place of raisins.
• Make It Vegan: Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter and your vegan friends will thank you.

How to Make Baked Apples with Cinnamon, Raisins, and Pecans Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Apples

First things first, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it warms up while you prep the fruit. Next, rinse each apple and pat them dry. Using a sharp paring knife or an apple corer, carefully cut out the cores from the top, leaving about half an inch at the bottom so the filling stays put. I like to make the hole around an inch wide — just enough to stuff in the yummy mix without breaking the apple apart. Don’t rush here; take your time to avoid poking through the sides!

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, chopped pecans, and currants or chopped raisins. Stir everything well so the cinnamon is evenly distributed. This blend is simple but packs a punch of warm spices, sweetness, and crunch that really makes each bite memorable.

Step 3: Stuff the Apples and Add Butter

Place the apples upright in a baking dish. Stuff each apple with the sugar mixture, packing it in gently but firmly. On top of each apple’s filling, dot with a small quarter tablespoon of butter—this melts down and mingles with the filling, creating a luscious syrup as it bakes. I discovered this trick one day when my first batch was a little dry without butter; it really makes a huge difference in juiciness.

Step 4: Add Boiling Water and Bake

Pour about 3/4 cup of boiling water into the baking dish around the apples—not over them, just enough to create steam while they bake. The steam is key to keeping the apples soft but not mushy. Bake uncovered for about 35 minutes, or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. I like checking at 30 minutes just to avoid overbaking.

How to Serve Baked Apples with Cinnamon, Raisins, and Pecans Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping my baked apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream—both melt beautifully over the warm fruit and add a creamy contrast. Sometimes I sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or drizzle honey on top for an extra-special touch that impresses guests.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a rich cup of spiced tea or coffee for a truly cozy experience. For a more substantial dessert, pairing these baked apples with a slice of pound cake or a simple shortbread cookie works wonderfully to soak up the juices.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I love plating the apples on rustic wooden boards, garnished with fresh mint leaves or thin apple slices fanned out beside them. You can even drizzle caramel sauce over everything for a fancy finish that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers — and sometimes I do! — I cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store them in the fridge. They keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors actually meld even more overnight. Just be sure to scoop any excess liquid off the top before storing to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

I’ve frozen baked apples before and found they thaw well but can be a bit softer. If you want to freeze, cool completely then wrap each apple tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Use within 2 months for best flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop them in a 350°F oven for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible since that can make apples watery and mushy. The oven method keeps that lovely texture intact.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Baked Apples with Cinnamon, Raisins, and Pecans Recipe has become one of those simple pleasures I go back to time and again, especially when I want to make something that feels special with minimal effort. It’s cozy, comforting, and bursts with natural sweetness and spice—everything I love about fall in a dish. I really hope you give it a try and enjoy sharing it with the people you love, just like I do!

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