It was a chilly autumn evening, and I was craving something warm, comforting, and bursting with seasonal flavors. That’s when I remembered my go-to recipe for Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries. I had first discovered this delightful dish a few years ago, and it’s been a staple in my kitchen ever since. There’s just something so satisfying about the sweet, tart, and savory combination that makes it the perfect cozy treat.
As I gathered the ingredients and preheated the oven, the familiar aromas of cinnamon and baked apples began to fill my kitchen. I couldn’t wait to enjoy this recipe, which makes exactly 6 servings, with each serving being a delicious, perfectly stuffed apple. The prep work only takes 15 minutes, and then the Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries bake for 20 minutes, making this a quick and easy dish to whip up.
Table of Contents
Why This Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries
This Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries recipe is truly special because it strikes the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tart flavors. The key is using high-quality ingredients and a few secret techniques that ensure the apples come out of the oven tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. This recipe yields 6 delicious servings, and I guarantee it will become a new family favorite.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 6 medium-sized Honeycrisp or Gala apples
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries Instructions
Preparing Your Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries
This recipe takes 35 minutes total – 15 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll need a sharp knife, a spoon, and a baking dish to make these Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries.
1- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. Wash and dry the 6 large Fuji or Gala apples, then use a sharp knife to carefully slice the tops off each apple and scoop out the cores, creating a small well in the center of each one.
2- In a medium bowl, combine the 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup of dried cranberries, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mix the ingredients together until well incorporated.
3- Spoon the feta, honey, and cranberry filling into the hollowed-out centers of the 6 apples, filling them about 3/4 of the way up.
4- Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the filling is hot and bubbly.
5- Remove the Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
6- Drizzle any remaining honey from the baking dish over the top of the apples, and enjoy your delicious 6-serving creation!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries turn out perfectly, here are a few pro tips:
- Use a sharp paring knife to neatly scoop out the apple cores without damaging the apples.
- Avoid overfilling the apples, as the filling can bubble over during baking.
- Keep an eye on the apples during the 20-minute baking time, as cooking times may vary depending on the size of your apples.
- Let the apples cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the filling to set up.
Serving and Storing Your Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries
Perfect Pairings for Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries
These Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries make a wonderful dessert or even a satisfying snack. Each of the 6 servings is a single stuffed apple, and they pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more substantial meal, serve them alongside a fresh green salad or roasted root vegetables.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the apples in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also prepare the filling in advance and store it separately, then assemble and bake the apples when ready to serve.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries
Creative Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries Variations
For a seasonal twist, try swapping the cranberries for chopped pecans or walnuts. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or blue cheese, for a more savory flavor profile. In the fall, use Honeycrisp or Gala apples, and in the spring, opt for tart Granny Smith apples.
Making Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply skip the breadcrumb topping. For a vegan version, use a plant-based cheese alternative and maple syrup instead of honey. And for a low-carb adaptation, swap the apples for halved zucchini or eggplant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of apple?
A: Absolutely! While Fuji and Gala apples work great in this recipe, you can also use Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Granny Smith apples. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the apple variety.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes exactly 6 servings, with each serving being 1 stuffed apple.
Q: Can I make these Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it separately. When ready to serve, simply stuff the apples and bake. The Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries can also be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days after baking.
Q: How do I ensure the apples don’t get overcooked?
A: Keep a close eye on the apples during the 20-minute baking time, as cooking times may vary depending on the size and variety of apples you’re using. The apples should be tender but still hold their shape when pierced with a fork.
Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries are a delightful autumn dish that combines sweet, savory, and tart flavors for a truly mouthwatering experience. The tender baked apples are stuffed with a delicious mixture of crumbled feta, honey, and tart dried cranberries, creating a comforting and satisfying main, side, or dessert.
Ingredients
– 6 medium-sized Honeycrisp or Gala apples
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. 2. Slice the tops off the apples and use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out the cores, leaving about 1/2 inch of the apple intact at the bottom.
3. 3. In a small bowl, mix together the feta, honey, cranberries, rosemary, and cinnamon until well combined.
4. 4. Stuff the hollowed-out apples with the feta-honey-cranberry mixture, packing it in tightly.
5. 5. Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the filling is hot and bubbly.
6. 6. Serve the Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries warm, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.
Notes
– For a creamier filling, you can mix in a tablespoon or two of softened cream cheese along with the feta.
– Try using different types of apples, such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji, to vary the flavor and texture.
– Serve the Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries as a main dish, side, or dessert.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Vegetarian & Vegan Mains
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries are the ultimate cozy, flavorful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of baking, this 6-serving recipe is a total breeze to make. I hope you’ll give it a try and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to tag me in your creations on social media.
