Imagine biting into a perfectly baked apple, where sweet meets savory in an explosion of flavor that will make your taste buds dance! These Cheddar Topped Baked Apples are not just a dessert – they're a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary fruit into an extraordinary experience. With a golden, melted cheese crown and a rich, nutty filling, this recipe bridges the gap between comfort food and gourmet delight, promising to become your new favorite go-to dish for any occasion.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Wash the apples thoroughly. Using an apple corer or a sharp paring knife, carefully remove the core from each apple, leaving the bottom intact to create a hollow center. Be sure to leave about 1/2 inch of apple at the bottom.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped pecans. Mix well to create a uniform filling.
- Stuff each cored apple with the brown sugar and pecan mixture, pressing gently to pack it into the center.
- Cut the butter into small pieces and place a small pat on top of the filling in each apple.
- Arrange the stuffed apples on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are standing upright and not touching each other.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove the apples from the oven and immediately sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of each apple.
- Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the apples cool for 5 minutes before serving. The cheese will create a delicious savory topping that complements the sweet, tender apples.
- Serve warm as a delightful dessert or side dish, optionally garnished with additional chopped pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Tips
- Choose the right apples: Firm, slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for baking, as they hold their shape and provide a nice contrast to the sweet filling.
- Core carefully: Use an apple corer or a sharp paring knife, and be sure to leave the bottom intact to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Don't rush the cheese: Add the cheddar in the last 2-3 minutes of baking to prevent overcooking and ensure a perfect, slightly golden melt.
- Serve immediately: These apples are best enjoyed warm, right after the cheese has melted, to experience the ultimate texture and flavor combination.
- Get creative with cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like Gruyère or gouda for a unique twist.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the stuffed apples in advance and refrigerate, then bake just before serving for a convenient and impressive dessert.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
