Baked cinnamon apples have been a staple in my kitchen for years, bringing a comforting warmth that feels like a hug in a bowl. I remember my mom making them on chilly autumn evenings, the sweet, spicy aroma filling our entire house. It was always the highlight of dinner, a simple yet incredibly satisfying treat. This easy baked cinnamon apples recipe is my go-to because it’s so straightforward and always turns out perfectly tender and juicy, with that irresistible caramel-like sauce. The smell alone is pure magic! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Baked Cinnamon Apples Recipe

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons:

Incredible Flavor: The combination of tender apples, sweet brown sugar, and warm cinnamon is simply divine.
Super Quick Prep: You can have these ready for the oven in just 10 minutes!
Healthyish Treat: Apples are packed with fiber, making this a guilt-free dessert option.
Budget-Friendly: Apples are often an inexpensive fruit, making this an affordable indulgence.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore these simple baked cinnamon apples.
Cozy Aroma: Your kitchen will smell amazing as these warm cinnamon baked apples bake.
Versatile Dessert: Perfect on its own or served with ice cream.

Ingredients for Baked Cinnamon Apples

Gathering your ingredients for these delightful baked apples with cinnamon and sugar is a breeze. The simplicity is part of what makes this recipe so special. Here’s what you’ll need:

6 cups peeled and cored apple slices – I like to use about 4-5 medium apples for this amount. Using firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp will give you the best texture.
1/3 cup packed brown sugar – This gives our baked apples that lovely caramel note and sweetness. Make sure it’s packed tightly into the measuring cup!
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – The star spice that brings all the cozy fall flavors.
1 tablespoon lemon juice – A little bit of lemon juice brightens the flavors and helps prevent the apples from browning too quickly.
1/4 cup cubed salted butter – This melts over the apples as they bake, creating a rich, luscious sauce.

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How to Make Oven Baked Cinnamon Apples

Making these delightful oven baked cinnamon apples is incredibly simple, and the aroma that fills your kitchen is just heavenly. This recipe is perfect for a quick dessert when you need something warm and comforting. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious treat in no time!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish or a 9×9-inch baking pan. This helps prevent sticking and ensures your apples bake evenly.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine about 6 cups of peeled and cored apple slices. Add the 1/3 cup of packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Toss everything gently until all the apple slices are thoroughly coated. This step is crucial for distributing that sweet, spicy flavor.
Step 3: Carefully transfer the coated apple slices into your prepared baking dish. Arrange them in a single layer as much as possible for even cooking. Now, dot the top of the apples with the 1/4 cup of cubed salted butter. As it melts, it will create a wonderful, rich sauce.
Step 4: Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. It’s important to stir them halfway through the baking time. This ensures all the apples cook evenly and develop that perfect tender texture and a lovely, saucy consistency. You’ll know they’re ready when the apples are tender but not mushy. This is how you know you’re mastering how to bake cinnamon apples.
Step 5: Once the apples are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Let them cool for just a few minutes before serving. These quick baked cinnamon apples are best enjoyed warm, letting their comforting scent and taste envelop you.

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Cinnamon Apples

Want to elevate your baked apples from good to absolutely amazing? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference in achieving that perfect texture and flavor.

Choose Your Apples Wisely: For the best results, always go for firm, tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. They hold their shape beautifully and offer a wonderful balance to the sweetness.
Slice Uniformly: Aim for consistent apple slice thickness, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch. This ensures they all cook at the same rate, preventing some from becoming mushy while others are still firm.
Don’t Skip the Stir: Giving your apples a gentle stir halfway through baking is crucial. It ensures even cooking and helps create that delicious, saucy consistency by distributing the melted butter and cinnamon sugar mixture.
Flavor Boosters: A tiny splash of vanilla extract added to the apple mixture before baking can really enhance the overall flavor profile. You could also add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth.
Storage Savvy: If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

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What’s the secret to perfect baked cinnamon apples?

The real secret to achieving the best baked cinnamon apples lies in using firm, tart apples and slicing them uniformly. This combination ensures they cook evenly, retaining a delightful texture without turning to mush.

Can I make baked cinnamon apples ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the apple mixture and place it in the baking dish up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with baked cinnamon apples?

The most common pitfalls are mushy apples or uneven cooking. To avoid mushy apples, always use firm varieties and don’t overbake them. For even cooking, ensure your apple slices are uniform in thickness and remember to stir them halfway through the baking process.

Best Ways to Serve Warm Cinnamon Baked Apples

These warm cinnamon baked apples are pure comfort in a dish, and how you serve them can make them even more special. They’re incredibly versatile, perfect as a standalone treat or as part of a larger dessert spread. My favorite way to enjoy them is right after they come out of the oven, still steaming and fragrant.

For a classic pairing, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting into the warm apples is absolute heaven. You could also opt for a dollop of fresh whipped cream for a lighter touch. A drizzle of rich caramel sauce takes these already delicious apples to a whole new level of decadence, making for truly memorable dessert baked cinnamon apples. They also pair beautifully with a simple pound cake or angel food cake, offering a wonderful contrast in textures.

Nutrition Facts for Baked Cinnamon Apples

When you’re enjoying this delightful treat, it’s good to have an idea of the nutritional breakdown. This recipe is designed to be a simple, wholesome dessert, and knowing the details can help you fit it into your eating plan.

Calories: 190 kcal per serving
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A
Fat: N/A
Saturated Fat: N/A
Unsaturated Fat: N/A
Trans Fat: N/A
Carbohydrates: N/A
Fiber: N/A
Protein: N/A
Cholesterol: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Homemade Baked Cinnamon Apples

One of the best things about this recipe is that you can easily enjoy these delicious homemade baked cinnamon apples more than once! Once they’ve cooled down completely, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days, making them perfect for a quick snack or dessert throughout the week. If you want to keep them even longer, these baked apples freeze beautifully. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and then in foil, and they’ll last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating is just as simple. For a quick warm-up, pop a serving in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. If you prefer a softer texture, you can gently reheat them in a baking dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. Enjoying your leftover baked cinnamon apples is almost as good as making them the first time!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Cinnamon Apples

What kind of apples are best for baked cinnamon apples?

For the absolute best baked cinnamon apples, I always reach for firm, tart varieties. Think Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or even Pink Lady. These apples hold their shape beautifully during baking, preventing them from becoming too mushy. Their slight tartness also perfectly balances the sweetness of the cinnamon and brown sugar.

Can I use other sweeteners besides brown sugar?

You sure can! While brown sugar gives that lovely caramel-like depth, you can also use regular granulated sugar, maple syrup, or even honey. If you opt for liquid sweeteners like maple syrup or honey, you might need to slightly reduce the amount of lemon juice, as they can add a bit more moisture. Experiment to find your favorite combination for baked apples with cinnamon and sugar!

How long do homemade baked cinnamon apples last?

These delicious treats are best enjoyed fresh, but they do store quite well. Once cooled, you can keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. They reheat beautifully, so enjoying them again is no problem at all. This is why what are baked cinnamon apples so great – they offer delicious leftovers!

Why bake apples with cinnamon?

Baking apples with cinnamon is a classic for a reason! The heat transforms the apples, softening them and concentrating their natural sugars into a wonderfully sweet, tender fruit. Cinnamon adds that signature warm, spicy aroma and flavor that just screams comfort and coziness. It’s a simple combination that creates a truly satisfying dessert, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal fruit.

Variations of Baked Cinnamon Apples You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, there are so many fun ways to jazz up your baked cinnamon apples! These variations add extra flavor and texture for an even more decadent dessert experience. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your spiced baked apples – they’re perfect for experimenting!

Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the apples in the last 10 minutes of baking. They add a wonderful texture and earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Extra Spice: Enhance the warmth by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon. A tiny bit of ground ginger can also add a lovely zing.
Crumble Topping: For a delightful twist, make a simple crumble topping by mixing flour, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly. Sprinkle this over your baked apple slices cinnamon before baking for a taste sensation similar to apple pie.
A Splash of Spirit: For an adult-friendly dessert, add a tablespoon of dark rum or brandy to the apple mixture before baking. It adds a subtle depth of flavor that’s truly delicious.