why make this recipe
Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. It’s easy to prepare and makes a perfect side dish or light dessert. The juicy apples pair wonderfully with creamy feta cheese, sweet honey, and tangy cranberries. This recipe also lets you enjoy a warm, comforting treat that’s perfect for any season.
how to make Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries
Ingredients:
- 4 medium apples (Honeycrisp or Gala)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 2 tablespoons honey, plus more for drizzling
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Core the apples, leaving the bottoms intact to form a well.
- Place the cored apples in a small baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix together feta cheese, cranberries, nuts (if using), cinnamon, nutmeg, and honey.
- Spoon the mixture evenly into the center of each apple.
- Top each apple with a few bits of butter.
- Add a splash of water to the bottom of the baking dish to keep the apples moist.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Uncover the dish and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the tops are golden.
- Drizzle with more honey before serving. Enjoy this warm treat as a side dish or light dessert.
how to serve Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries
Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries are best served warm. You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra sweetness. They also make for a wonderful addition to a holiday meal or a cozy dinner.
how to store Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 2-3 days. To reheat, place the apples in a baking dish and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You may want to add a little honey on top before reheating for extra flavor.
tips to make Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries
- Choose apples that hold their shape well, like Honeycrisp or Gala, for the best results.
- Feel free to experiment with different nuts or dried fruits based on your preference.
- For an added burst of flavor, squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the filling before baking.
variation
You can make this recipe gluten-free by ensuring that any nuts used are gluten-free. Additionally, try swapping the feta cheese for goat cheese for a different taste profile. If you prefer a vegan version, you can use a plant-based cheese and maple syrup instead of honey.
FAQs
1. Can I use different kinds of apples?
Yes, you can use any apple variety that is good for baking. Just make sure they are firm and not too soft.
2. How can I make this recipe more sweet?
You can add more honey to the filling mixture or drizzle extra honey over the baked apples before serving.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apples with the filling in advance and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just bake them as directed.