Honey Cinnamon Baked Apples

Name: Honey Cinnamon Baked Apples
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium-sized apples; 1/4 cup honey; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional); Vanilla ice cream (for serving, optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making Honey Cinnamon Baked Apples as they remind me of cozy autumn evenings spent with family. The sweet scent of cinnamon and honey wafting through the kitchen creates a warm atmosphere that captivates everyone. This recipe brings together simple ingredients, transforming humble apples into a delightful dessert that feels both comforting and indulgent. Whether served warm alongside vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on their own, these baked apples are a celebration of flavors that I find irresistible and a must-try for anyone looking to impress their guests.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:40:30.023Z

One afternoon, I decided to experiment with some fresh apples I had at home. I wanted to create a dessert that showcased their natural sweetness while adding a warm, comforting twist. The result was these Honey Cinnamon Baked Apples, which exceeded my expectations in both flavor and aroma. The apples become tender, absorbing the honey and cinnamon, making them a real treat!

Over the years, I've tried different variations, and I've learned that the best types of apples for this recipe are sweet and firm ones like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Not only do they hold their shape well, but they also caramelize beautifully in the oven. Try it with a scoop of ice cream; it’s an unforgettable combination!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Warm, comforting flavors of honey and cinnamon
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
A healthy yet indulgent dessert option

      

Creating the Perfect Filling

The filling for these baked apples is where the magic happens. The combination of honey and cinnamon not only sweetens the apples but also infuses them with a warm, aromatic flavor that's reminiscent of autumn. When mixing the filling, make sure all the ingredients are blended smoothly to ensure that each bite of apple is equally delicious. If you'd like to boost the flavor further, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract to the filling mix.

Chopped walnuts add a delightful crunch and extra depth to the dish. If you're avoiding nuts or catering to allergies, you can easily substitute them with toasted oats or even leave them out entirely. This will still allow the tender apples to shine with their natural sweetness and the rich flavors of honey and cinnamon. Additionally, you could experiment with other nuts such as pecans for a different texture or flavor profile.

Baking Techniques for Success

It's crucial to monitor the baking time closely to achieve perfectly tender apples. After about 25 minutes in the oven, start checking for doneness. The apples should be soft enough to pierce easily with a fork, while still holding their shape. Overbaking can lead to apples that fall apart, so keep an eye out. If your apples seem to be browning too quickly, you might want to cover them loosely with aluminum foil during the latter part of the baking.

The addition of water to the baking dish not only aids in steaming but also prevents the honey from caramelizing too quickly at the bottom, which could otherwise lead to sticking or burning. The water should just cover the base of the dish and not touch the apples. If you prefer a slightly thicker syrupy texture, you can reduce the amount of water or even replace it with apple juice for an extra boost of flavor.

Ingredients

4 medium-sized apples
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Vanilla ice cream (for serving, optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Apples

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Core the apples, making sure to leave the bottoms intact to hold in the filling.

Mix the Filling

In a small bowl, combine honey, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts if using. Stir until well mixed.

Fill the Apples

Place the prepared apples in a baking dish. Spoon the honey mixture into the center of each apple, filling them generously.

Add Butter and Bake

Dot the top of each apple with a small piece of butter. Pour a little water into the bottom of the baking dish to help with steaming. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the apples are tender.

Serve

Remove the baked apples from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try sprinkling a little nutmeg along with the cinnamon. You can also experiment with different nuts or even add raisins for extra sweetness.

Storage and Reheating

These Honey Cinnamon Baked Apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you anticipate leftovers, make sure to let them cool completely before sealing. When reheating, it’s best to do so in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method retains the apples' texture better than a microwave, which can often make them mushy.

If you're looking to make these baked apples ahead of time, you can prepare everything up to the baking step. Just keep the filled apples in the refrigerator, covered tightly, for a day before baking. When you're ready to enjoy, simply pop them in the oven. This makes them an ideal dessert for entertaining, allowing you to spend more time with your guests.

Serving Suggestions

For an indulgent dessert experience, serve the baked apples warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess of the ice cream complements the warmth of the apples beautifully, creating a delightful contrast in both temperature and texture. Alternatively, you can drizzle a bit more honey over the top just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

If you're looking to add a twist, try pairing the baked apples with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for added flavor and texture. For a more sophisticated take, serve them with a side of spiced crème fraîche or a flavored yogurt, which adds a tangy balance to the sweetness of the dish. These variations can elevate your dessert and make it even more memorable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?

While any apples can be used, sweet and firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji work best as they hold their shape and flavor well.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the apples and fill them with honey and cinnamon mixture a few hours in advance. Just bake them just before serving.

→ How long does it take to bake these apples?

The apples take about 30 minutes to bake at 350°F (175°C), or until they are tender.

→ What can I serve with baked apples?

Baked apples are delicious on their own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or whipped cream.