When it comes to desserts, few things are as comforting and satisfying as a warm, baked apple. The natural sweetness of the fruit, combined with a hint of cinnamon and a crunchy topping, makes for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. But what if you’re following a gluten-free diet? Don’t worry—this gluten-free baked apple recipe is here to save the day! Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling good about indulging.
Gluten-free diets have become increasingly popular, whether due to celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or simply a desire to reduce gluten intake. Baked apples are naturally gluten-free, making them an excellent dessert option for those avoiding gluten. By using gluten-free oats and almond flour in the topping, you can create a dessert that’s both delicious and safe for anyone with gluten restrictions.
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make these gluten-free baked apples:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith) | 4 |
| Gluten-free rolled oats | 1/2 cup |
| Almond flour | 1/4 cup |
| Brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a healthier option) | 1/4 cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter (or coconut oil for a vegan option) | 2 tablespoons |
| Chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) | 1/4 cup |
| Raisins or dried cranberries (optional) | 1/4 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Water or apple juice | 1/2 cup |
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the apples.
Wash the apples thoroughly and pat them dry. Using a sharp knife or an apple corer, carefully remove the cores from the apples, making sure not to cut through the bottom. This creates a cavity for the filling. If you don’t have an apple corer, you can use a paring knife to carefully carve out the core.
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the gluten-free rolled oats, almond flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, chopped nuts, and raisins (if using). Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Add the melted butter or coconut oil and vanilla extract, and stir until the mixture is crumbly but holds together when pressed.
Take the prepared apples and stuff them generously with the oat mixture. Pack the filling tightly into the cavities, and if there’s any leftover filling, you can sprinkle it on top of the apples.
Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and pour the water or apple juice into the bottom of the dish. This helps keep the apples moist during baking. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Once the apples are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples are popular choices due to their balance of sweetness and tartness, you can use any variety of apple you prefer. Just keep in mind that softer apples may bake faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly.
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by substituting the butter with coconut oil and ensuring that the sugar you use is vegan-friendly (such as coconut sugar).
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Yes, you can freeze baked apples. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each apple individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in the oven.
Gluten-free baked apples are a simple yet elegant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re following a gluten-free diet or simply looking for a healthier dessert option, this recipe is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With its combination of tender apples, crunchy topping, and warm spices, it’s a dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. So why not give this recipe a try? Your taste buds—and your body—will thank you!
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