If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both cozy and crowd-pleasing, Baked Apple Slices are about to become your new fall favorite. Imagine tender apples kissed with cinnamon, caramelized just enough to bring out their natural sweetness, and perfectly balanced with a hint of lemon. This recipe goes from simple ingredients to pure baked comfort in under an hour, and you don’t need any special skills or fancy equipment. It’s a staple that feels both nostalgic and fresh, with flavors that celebrate everything we love about homemade treats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Apples:
- 4 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Optional: 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
How to Make Baked Apple Slices
Step 1: Prep Your Apples
Start by grabbing four medium apples. Peel, core, and slice them evenly—aim for about 1/4-inch thickness so they cook at the same rate. This is the perfect time to use those gorgeous seasonal apples you picked up at the farmer’s market!
Step 2: Mix the Flavor Magic
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and maple syrup or honey if you’re using it. Toss everything together until the apples are well coated and glistening with the buttery, spiced mixture. The aroma alone at this stage is a little preview of what’s to come!
Step 3: Arrange in Your Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then spread the apple mixture out in an even layer. This lets the heat circulate and ensures each slice bakes to perfection—soft, but never mushy, with golden edges.
Step 4: Bake to Caramelized Perfection
Pop your dish into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring once about halfway through. The apples should be fork-tender and gently caramelized around the edges. Let them cool slightly, just enough so you won’t burn your tongue but still catch that melt-in-your-mouth warmth!
How to Serve Baked Apple Slices
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of cinnamon or a light dusting of powdered sugar takes these Baked Apple Slices to the next level. For a truly decadent twist, add a spoonful of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce never hurts either—your call!
Side Dishes
These warm, cinnamon-laced apples are incredible as a dessert, but you’re not limited to just after-dinner treats. Serve them alongside a bowl of creamy Greek yogurt for a wholesome breakfast, or pile them on pancakes or waffles for a weekend brunch to remember.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or family gatherings, try layering the Baked Apple Slices in parfait glasses with granola and yogurt. Or spoon them over pound cake or biscuits to create an easy, homey apple shortcake. You can even wrap them in crepes for a brunch everyone will talk about!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Baked Apple Slices cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Pop them in the fridge and they’ll keep for up to four days, making it easy to enjoy a sweet treat any time of the week.
Freezing
If you want to savor this apple goodness beyond the week, freezing is a fantastic option. Arrange the cooled slices in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep well for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the Baked Apple Slices in the microwave for a minute or two, or pop them in a 325°F (165°C) oven until heated through. If serving with ice cream, the warm-cold contrast makes every bite extra special!
FAQs
Can I prepare Baked Apple Slices ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can either prep the apples and filling a few hours ahead, keeping them covered in the fridge, or bake in advance and gently rewarm just before serving. They’re incredibly forgiving, making them perfect for holidays or casual entertaining.
What are the best apples to use for this recipe?
Firm and slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji are ideal. They hold their shape and give a lovely balance of sweet-tart flavor after baking.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeled apples result in a smoother, melt-in-your-mouth texture, but you can leave the skins on for added fiber, color, and rustic appeal. Just be sure to wash them well!
Can I adjust the spices to suit my taste?
Totally! Cinnamon and nutmeg are classic, but try a pinch of cloves, allspice, or even cardamom for a little spin. The spice blend is flexible, so make it your own.
How can I make these Baked Apple Slices vegan?
Simply swap melted butter for coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute, and use maple syrup instead of honey. You’ll keep all the comfort and flavor, deliciously vegan-style!
Final Thoughts
I hope you give Baked Apple Slices a spot in your kitchen soon—they’re the ultimate fuss-free comfort dessert you’ll find yourself craving all year. Whether you serve them at the holiday table, tuck them into lunchboxes, or treat yourself on a chilly afternoon, each bite feels like a warm hug from the oven. Happy baking!
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Baked Apple Slices Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of baked apple slices with this easy recipe. Perfectly spiced and lightly sweetened, these tender apples make a delightful dessert or snack.
Ingredients
Apples:
- 4 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Optional: 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the apples: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and maple syrup or honey if using.
- Bake: Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 25–30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the apples are tender and lightly caramelized.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Delicious served warm on their own or topped with vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or granola.
- You can use any firm baking apple such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
