Ingredients
Apples
- 4 medium apples (about 220 g each)
- Cinnamon for dusting
Crumb Topping
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (100 g)
- ½ cup gluten-free flour blend or all-purpose flour (80 g)
- ¼ cup chopped pecans (27 g)
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare apples: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut each apple in half and carefully scoop out the core to create a hollow center. Arrange the apple halves, cut-side up, in a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Lightly dust the apples with cinnamon and set aside.
- Make the crumb topping: In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, gluten-free or all-purpose flour, chopped pecans, maple syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed and form a crumbly texture.
- Assemble topping on apples: Evenly divide the oat and pecan topping over each apple half, generously covering the exposed flesh.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Bake the apples in the oven for 30 minutes to allow them to start softening and the flavors to meld.
- Finish baking uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the apples are tender throughout and the crumb topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and garnish: Optionally serve the baked apples warm with a scoop of ice cream, yogurt, or whipped topping. Garnish with extra chopped pecans, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Choose firm apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji for the best texture that holds up during baking.
- Gluten-free flour can be substituted with all-purpose flour if gluten is not a concern.
- For a vegan option, substitute unsalted butter with a plant-based butter alternative.
- Make sure not to overbake apples to avoid mushiness; the topping should be golden and crisp.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and gently reheated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free