Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large baking apples (such as Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Core the apples, then carefully slice them deeply from the top almost to the bottom in 8-10 sections, ensuring the base remains intact so the apple holds its shape (creating the "bloom").
- Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup until thoroughly combined. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Step 3: Carefully spoon the spiced mixture evenly into the crevices of the sliced apples, letting the mixture fall towards the core and over the top. Place the prepared apples into a small baking dish.
- Step 4: Bake for 30 to 45 minutes, or until the apples are fork-tender and the topping is bubbly and caramelized. Baste the apples with the accumulated syrup in the dish halfway through the baking time.
- Step 5: Remove the dish from the oven and let the apples cool slightly for about 5 minutes before serving warm, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or extra syrup from the pan.
Notes
- To maintain structure, store leftover apples covered tightly in the fridge for up to three days, keeping in mind the pecan topping will soften slightly upon cooling.
- For the best texture, reheat individual apples in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through, rather than using the microwave, which can make them mushy.
- Elevate this dessert by serving it alongside a dollop of fresh whipped cream stabilized with a touch of cream cheese, or a spoonful of rich salted caramel sauce.
- When creating the bloom, place chopsticks or thick rubber bands parallel to the apple base while slicing; they act as a safety stop, preventing your knife from accidentally cutting all the way through the bottom.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American