These Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries: A Sweet and Savory Delight are a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. Ideal for dessert or as a delightful snack, this recipe features creamy feta, tart cranberries, and a drizzle of honey. The warm spices of cinnamon combined with fresh mint create a cozy dish that is perfect for fall evenings or holiday gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of sweet apples, tangy feta, and tart cranberries creates a unique taste experience.
- Easy to Prepare: This simple recipe requires minimal time and effort, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these baked apples warm as a dessert or chilled as a refreshing snack anytime.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, these baked apples fit right in.
- Healthy Indulgence: Packed with nutrients from fresh fruits and cranberries, this dish offers a healthier dessert option without sacrificing taste.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything ready helps you focus on creating this delightful dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Knife
- Spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and heat distribution for perfectly baked apples.
- Knife: Essential for coring the apples safely and efficiently.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the filling ingredients easily without mess.
Ingredients
To create these delightful Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Filling
- 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons honey
For Baking
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, divided
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For Garnish (Optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
How to Make Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough to bake the apples evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
- Carefully core each apple using a knife. Leave about ½ inch intact at the bottom to hold the filling securely.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the feta cheese, dried cranberries, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
2. Stir until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
Step 4: Stuff the Apples
Place the cored apples in your baking dish.
* Gently stuff each apple with the feta mixture, pressing lightly to fill them up.
Step 5: Add Honey and Butter
Drizzle honey over each stuffed apple. Then place a small pat of butter on top of each one for added richness.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish with foil.
* Bake for 25-30 minutes until the apples are tender.
Step 7: Bake Uncovered
Remove the foil from the baking dish.
* Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the tops are golden brown.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Let your baked apples cool slightly after removing them from the oven.
If desired, sprinkle with fresh mint before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Serve Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries: A Sweet and Savory Delight
These Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries are not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve them in various ways to enhance their flavors and appeal.
As a Dessert
- Serve warm for a comforting end to your meal.
- Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
With Ice Cream
- Pair with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
On a Cheese Board
- Include as part of a cheese platter alongside assorted cheeses and crackers.
With Fresh Mint
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor.
How to Perfect Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Perfecting your baked apples will make every bite memorable. Here are some tips to elevate this recipe.
- Choose the right apples: Select firm apples like Honeycrisp or Gala to hold their shape during baking.
- Adjust sweetness: Modify the honey quantity depending on your taste preference or the tartness of the cranberries.
- Experiment with spices: Add nutmeg or allspice for an extra kick of warmth.
- Let them rest: Allow the baked apples to cool slightly before serving to enhance their flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Pairing side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement baked apples beautifully.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette can balance the sweetness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts or carrots add earthy flavors.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs makes a wholesome side.
- Cheese Platter: Various cheeses paired with fruits can create a stunning display.
- Grilled Chicken: A simple grilled chicken breast offers protein without overpowering the dish.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice and beans provide a hearty option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries can be delightful, but some common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using the wrong apple variety: Choosing apples that are too soft will make them mushy. Opt for firmer varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala for the best results.
- Overstuffing the apples: Filling the apples too much can lead to spillage and uneven cooking. Keep the filling level just below the top for optimal baking.
- Skipping the cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and flavor. Omitting it will result in a less aromatic dish. Always include cinnamon in your mix for that cozy essence.
- Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven can alter cooking times and textures. Always ensure your oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C) before placing the apples inside.
- Neglecting to cover while baking: Covering the dish with foil helps retain moisture and ensures even cooking. Remove it only during the last few minutes for browning.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store baked apples in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries: A Sweet and Savory Delight
- Freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in freezer-safe containers.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries: A Sweet and Savory Delight
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the apples on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place apples in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water. Cover and heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute feta cheese?
You can use goat cheese as an alternative if you prefer a different flavor profile.
How do I make these baked apples vegan?
Replace feta with a plant-based cheese alternative and use coconut oil instead of butter.
How long do baked apples keep?
Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
Feel free to add nuts for crunch or swap cranberries with raisins or chopped dates for sweetness.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare them in advance, store them, and then bake them when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries are not only a wonderful dessert but also versatile enough to work as a snack or side dish at gatherings. The balance of sweet and savory flavors makes them appealing to many palates. Customize by adding nuts or trying different types of cheese to suit your taste!
Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries: A Sweet and Savory Delight
Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries: A Sweet and Savory Delight is a charming treat that elegantly combines sweet and savory flavors. This cozy dish features tender baked apples stuffed with creamy feta cheese, tart cranberries, and a drizzle of honey that creates a delightful contrast. Warm spices like cinnamon and fresh mint add a touch of comfort, making these baked apples perfect for fall evenings or holiday gatherings. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a snack, this recipe is incredibly simple to prepare and offers versatility in serving options.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Gala)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Core the apples carefully, leaving about ½ inch at the bottom.
- In a mixing bowl, combine feta cheese, dried cranberries, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract; mix well.
- Stuff each apple with the feta mixture.
- Drizzle honey over the filled apples and place a small pat of butter on top.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes until tender.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh mint if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed apple (approx. 150g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Choose firm apple varieties to hold their shape during baking. Adjust honey based on your sweetness preference or the tartness of cranberries. Feel free to add nuts for extra crunch or swap cranberries with raisins for variety.