Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries for Cozy Nights

Why Make This Recipe

Baked apples with feta, honey, and cranberries are the perfect dish for cozy nights. They bring a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them a fantastic treat for any gathering or a quiet evening at home. When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of baked apples filling your kitchen. This recipe is not just easy to prepare; it also showcases the wonderful balance between tangy feta cheese and the natural sweetness of honey and apples. Each bite offers a comforting texture that is both soft and crunchy, thanks to the baked apples and chewy cranberries.

One of the best reasons to make this dish is its versatility. You can serve it as a warm dessert, a breakfast treat, or even as a delightful side dish during a festive supper. Whether you make it for yourself or share it with friends and family, everyone will appreciate the effort you put into creating this cozy, seasonal delight. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those apples you might have hanging around in your kitchen!

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

Making baked apples with feta, honey, and cranberries is simple. Follow these easy steps to create an unforgettable dish that will warm your heart and home.

Ingredients

To make this sweet and savory dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 pieces Firm Apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith): Choose firm varieties for best texture.
• 1 cup Feta Cheese (crumbled): You can substitute with goat cheese if you prefer.
• 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries: You can also use raisins or chopped dried cherries.
• 1/4 cup Honey: Maple syrup makes a great vegan alternative.
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: Feel free to substitute nutmeg for additional spice.
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Opt for pure vanilla for the best flavor.
• 2 tablespoons Butter: You can use plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
• 2 tablespoons Fresh Mint: This will be used for garnish.

Directions

Preparation

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

2. Prepare the apples: Wash the apples thoroughly. Cut off the top quarter of each apple and scoop out the core. Be gentle to keep the apple intact, as they will hold the filling.

3. Make the filling: In a bowl, mix together the crumbled feta, dried cranberries, honey, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined. This filling gives the apples a wonderful flavor profile, mixing sweet and savory.

4. Fill the apples: Stuff each apple with the feta and cranberry mixture, packing it in snugly. This helps the filling stay put during baking.

5. Add butter: Place the filled apples in a baking dish. Add a small pat of butter on top of each filled apple. This will melt and help create a nice glaze while baking.

6. Bake the apples: Pour a cup of water into the bottom of the dish to help steam the apples. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes. You want the apples to be tender but not mushy.

7. Garnish: Once they are done baking, take them out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Before serving, sprinkle fresh mint on top for an added touch of color and freshness.

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

Baked apples with feta, honey, and cranberries can be served in a variety of ways. Here are a few suggestions:

• As a dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt to complement the apples’ sweetness and richness.

• As a breakfast option: Pair with oatmeal or serve alongside pancakes for a special morning treat.

• As a side dish: Offer them at your dinner table next to roast meats. The combination of flavors will surprise and delight your guests.

No matter how you choose to serve them, your baked apples will surely be the centerpiece of any meal.

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

If you happen to have leftovers (though they might be hard to resist), it’s easy to store baked apples. Here’s how:

1. Cool down: Allow the baked apples to cool completely at room temperature.

2. Transfer to a container: Place the apples in an airtight container. If you have a lot of liquid leftover from the dish, consider pouring it over the apples.

3. Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator where they will last for about 3 to 5 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave. Warming them back up will bring back their delightful aroma and taste.

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

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your baked apples turn out perfectly every time:

• Choose the right apples: Firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith hold their shape well during baking. Avoid softer apples that might turn mushy.

• Customize the filling: Feel free to add nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for extra crunch. You can also mix in spices like nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile.

• Ensure even baking: Arrange the apples in a single layer in the baking dish to allow for even cooking. If they are piled on top of each other, they may not cook uniformly.

• Check for doneness: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your apples as they bake, especially during the last few minutes. They should be tender but still hold their shape.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and pure vanilla extract make a noticeable difference in flavor. Always opt for the best ingredients you can find for optimal taste.

Variation (if any)

Baked apples with feta, honey, and cranberries can be easily modified to suit your taste preferences. Here are a couple of variations to consider:

• Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use maple syrup instead of honey. Replace feta with a vegan cheese alternative or make a simple nut-based cheese spread.

• Stuffed Apples with Nuts: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, to your filling for an extra crunch. This variation adds a delightful texture and flavor.

• Sweet Treat: If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the amount of dried fruit or add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?
Yes, while the best choices are Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples, you can use any firm variety that you enjoy. Just avoid soft apples that will turn mushy when baked.

2. How long do baked apples last in the fridge?
Baked apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. They taste great warm or at room temperature.

3. Can I freeze baked apples?
Freezing baked apples is possible, but they may lose some texture when thawed. If you choose to freeze them, place them in an airtight container. To enjoy them later, thaw in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen.

4. What can I serve with baked apples?
Baked apples are versatile. They pair well with ice cream, yogurt, pancakes, or even as a side dish with roasted meats.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apples and filling ahead of time. Assemble the stuffed apples, cover them tightly, and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Bake them when you’re ready to enjoy!

Baked apples with feta, honey, and cranberries offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures, ideal for any cozy night. Whether you are sharing them with friends or enjoying them solo, this dish promises comfort and warmth when you need it most. Dive into this delicious recipe and let its sweet and savory goodness brighten up your evenings. Enjoy your baking!

Print