The changing leaves and crisp fall air always make me yearn for something cozy and warming, and there’s nothing quite like the scent of baked apples to evoke that sense of comfort. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender apples, perfectly stuffed with creamy feta, tart cranberries, and a luscious drizzle of honey. This delightful combination balances sweet and savory in a way that can only be described as pure magic. When I first experimented with Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries, I was amazed by how such simple ingredients could come together to create a show-stopping dessert, reminiscent of comforting baked goods yet elegantly unique.
Perfect for gatherings or a personal treat at the end of a long day, this dish invites everyone to enjoy a taste of fall’s best. Plus, it’s easily customizable—feel free to swap in your favorite fruits or cheeses! Join me in the kitchen, and let’s elevate our dessert game with this heartwarming recipe that promises to make your home smell incredible while delighting your taste buds.
Why will you love Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries?
Comforting Aroma: The delightful scent of baked apples fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for any fall gathering.
Unique Flavor Combination: Each bite balances the sweet and savory flavors of creamy feta, tart cranberries, and rich honey, offering a surprising taste that everyone will love.
Easy to Customize: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients; try using pears instead of apples or experiment with various cheeses for a personal touch.
Quick Prep Time: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a stunning dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for gatherings, this dish will wow your friends and family, making it a memorable addition to your dessert repertoire.
Nutritionally Friendly: At around 190 calories per serving, indulge guilt-free and enjoy this delectable treat anytime! If you want to explore even more delicious options, check out my fall dessert collection.
Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries Ingredients
For the Apples
• Apples – Choose firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture in your Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries.
For the Filling
• Feta Cheese – Adds creamy texture and a tangy flavor; goat cheese can be used for a milder taste.
• Dried Cranberries – Provide tartness and sweetness; raisins or chopped dried cherries are great alternatives.
• Honey – Sweetens the filling and enhances overall flavor; maple syrup works well as a vegan substitute.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and aroma; nutmeg can offer an extra touch of spice if desired.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
For the Topping
• Butter – Enriches flavor and aids in caramelization; for a dairy-free option, try plant-based butter.
• Fresh Mint – A lovely garnish that adds a touch of brightness before serving.
How to Make Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This ensures your apples won’t stick while they bake to perfection!
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Core each apple carefully. Make sure to create a pocket at the bottom, leaving the skin intact, to hold all that delicious filling.
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Mix together in a bowl the crumbled feta, dried cranberries, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. This fragrant mixture will be the star of your Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries!
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Stuff the apples generously with the cheese and cranberry mixture. Ensure they’re well-filled for maximum flavor in each delightful bite.
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Drizzle honey over each apple and place a small pat of butter on top. This addition helps caramelize the apples, creating a beautifully glossy finish.
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Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are softened. The aroma of baking apples will fill your kitchen with warmth!
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Uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the tops to brown slightly. You want them beautifully caramelized!
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Cool briefly before serving and garnish with chopped fresh mint for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent experience!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries
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Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to ensure they hold their shape while baking, avoiding mushiness.
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Don’t Overfill: Stuff the apples generously but avoid excessive filling that could cause spillage or prevent even cooking during the baking of your Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries.
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Monitor Baking Time: Apples vary in size, so keep a close eye on them as they bake. Use a fork to test for tenderness about 5 minutes before the recommended time.
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to try different cheeses or fruits, but keep in mind that mild cheeses pair best with the sweetness and tartness of the filling.
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Serving Tips: Allow the baked apples to cool slightly before serving; the flavors meld beautifully and give you a perfect sweet-and-savory experience.
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Make Ahead: Prepare the filling and core the apples in advance, then assemble just before baking for optimal freshness and texture.
How to Store and Freeze Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep your delicious Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked apples individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or use the microwave for a quick warm-up, ensuring they’re heated through.
Serving Suggestion: Consider serving with a drizzle of fresh honey or a scoop of ice cream to revive the original flavors of your Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries!
Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries Variations
Customize this delightful dish to suit your taste and pantry while keeping that heartwarming, cozy essence intact!
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Pears: Swap in ripe pears for a softer, sweeter twist. Their juicy texture pairs beautifully with feta.
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Goat Cheese: Use tangy goat cheese instead of feta for a milder, creamier filling. The richness complements the sweetness perfectly.
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Chopped Nuts: Add a sprinkle of walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch. These nuts bring texture and deepen the flavor profile immensely.
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Maple Syrup: Replace honey with maple syrup for an equally delicious, vegan-friendly sweetener. It adds a warm, earthy note.
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Nutmeg: Experiment by incorporating nutmeg instead of cinnamon for a unique, aromatic flavor transformation that speaks to the fall season.
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Cranberry Sauce: Use leftover cranberry sauce in place of dried cranberries for a more vibrant tartness. It creates a luscious, gooey filling.
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Spicy Touch: For a hint of warmth, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or ground ginger. This bold addition balances the sweetness and adds an exciting kick.
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Coconut Flakes: Stir in unsweetened coconut flakes for a tropical flair. This unexpected twist brings a delightful chewiness and flavor contrast to the dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can prepare the filling and core the apples up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the assembled apples until you’re ready to bake. To maintain their quality, cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss. When it’s time to serve, just drizzle with honey, add a small pat of butter, cover with foil, and bake for 25-30 minutes until soft. This means you can have a delightful dessert ready with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries?
Enjoy your warm, aromatic treat alongside these delightful pairings that will enhance your dining experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic complement! The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream beautifully balances the warm, sweet apples, creating a heavenly contrast.
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Cranberry Sauce: Serving a vibrant cranberry sauce adds an extra layer of tartness, echoing the fruit’s flavor in the dish while brightening the plate.
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Savory Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses, like aged cheddar or creamy brie, can provide a delightful savory counterpoint, creating a delicious balance with the sweet apples.
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Chopped Nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans sprinkled over the apples offer a satisfying crunch, enriching each bite and adding a nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience.
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Spiced Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai with its notes of cinnamon and cardamom pairs wonderfully with the baked apples, making for a cozy, comforting beverage choice.
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Fresh Mint Leaves: Garnishing with freshly chopped mint leaves not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing zing that brightens the palate.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly whipped cream brings a touch of indulgence, enhancing the creamy feta and sweet honey for a decadent finish.
Indulging in Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries alongside these delightful additions will create a memorable fall dessert experience!
Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries Recipe FAQs
What kind of apples are best for baking?
Choose firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for your Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries. These apples hold their shape well during baking and deliver a delightful texture that’s neither mushy nor overly crisp.
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How should I store leftover baked apples?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will ensure your Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries stay fresh and maintain their delicious flavor so you can enjoy them later!
Can I freeze baked apples?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze the baked apples individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave!
What can I do if my apples are too firm after baking?
If your Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries are still too firm after the recommended baking time, simply cover them with foil again and bake for an extra 5-10 minutes. Keep checking for tenderness with a fork, as baking time can vary depending on size.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly. If you have dairy allergies or are looking for a vegan alternative, swap feta cheese for plant-based cheese and use maple syrup instead of honey. Always check ingredient labels for allergens!
Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Core each apple carefully, creating a pocket at the bottom.
- Mix together crumbled feta, dried cranberries, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a bowl.
- Stuff the apples generously with the cheese and cranberry mixture.
- Drizzle honey over each apple and place a small pat of butter on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are softened.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until tops are slightly browned.
- Cool briefly before serving and garnish with chopped fresh mint.
