Delicious Gluten-Free Cinna-Baked Apples Recipe!
In today’s busy world, time is of the essence. We all want to provide healthy meals for ourselves and our families, but sometimes it just feels like there aren’t enough hours in the day. That’s why I love this gluten-free cinna-baked apples recipe! It’s quick, easy, and delicious.
Apples are one of nature’s best superfoods – full of vitamins, fiber, and healthy antioxidants. But let’s face it, sometimes they can be a bit boring. That’s where this recipe comes in handy. With just a few simple ingredients and some clever cooking techniques, we can take plain old apples to the next level.
I’m excited to share with you my favorite way to make baked apples – infused with cinnamon and topped with crispy granola cereal. Not only is this recipe gluten-free, but it’s also dairy-free and vegan-friendly, so anyone can enjoy it without worry.
If you’re looking for a healthy breakfast or a sweet treat without any guilt or fuss, then you’ve come to the right place. So let’s get started with baking some cinnamon-dusted goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you craving a sweet and flavorful dessert that won’t cause a sugar crash? Look no further than this gluten-free cinna-baked apples recipe. Trust me, one bite of these cinnamon-baked apples and you’ll be hooked!
Firstly, let’s talk about the star of this recipe – the apples. Not only are they a natural source of vitamins and fiber, but by using gluten-free ingredients, this dessert is easy on the stomach for those who may have dietary restrictions. Plus, as an added bonus, the aroma of the baked cinnamon apples will fill your home with a cozy warmth.
Secondly, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Substituting coconut oil for butter or margarine makes it vegan and dairy-free while adding in some rolled oats or granola cereal can add a bit of crunch to your dessert. The options for customization are endless.
Lastly (and most importantly), these baked apples are delicious! With their soft and tender texture, crispy edges, and hints of sweet cinnamon flavor, I guarantee you won’t miss those sugar-laden desserts. These cinna-baked apples were designed not only to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings but also provide a healthy dessert option.
So go ahead and try out this simple baked apple recipe. Whether served hot or cold as leftovers, it’s sure to become one of your go-to desserts.
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you need for this Gluten-Free Cinna-Baked Apples Recipe:
For the apples:
- 3 pounds small to medium apples (peeled, cored and sliced thin)
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil or butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp brown sugar
For the topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup granola cereal (gluten-free)
- 3 tbsp coconut oil or margarine, melted
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- a pinch of salt
The ingredients listed above are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free. Any of the items that are in bold are important to take note of as they may not be found on your typical baking shelf. Make sure to grab those items beforehand so you can get started on this delicious recipe without a hitch!
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s move on to how to make these delicious cinnamon-baked apples.
Instructions:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Peel, core, and cut thin slices of 3 pounds of small-medium apples.
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In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of melted butter or coconut oil, 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 3 tablespoons of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of granola cereal, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 2 tsp of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together.
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Add the apple slices and toss until they’re thoroughly coated.
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Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish with a bit of butter or coconut oil.
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Arrange the apple slices in an even layer.
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Bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden and soft. You can tell they’re cooked when a knife goes through them easily.
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Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Substitutions and Variations:
- For an even healthier version, use coconut oil instead of butter, it will give your baked apples a nice tropical flavor and aroma.
- You can also switch up the granola cereal for some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.
- Try adding some raisins, cranberries, or any other dried fruit you love to this recipe.
Serving and Pairing:
These Cinnamon-Baked Apples are so versatile! You can have them for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
They pair amazingly well with some fresh cream or yogurt too!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating:
You can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days.
If you have any leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave before eating. They’re just as delicious reheated!
Tips for Perfect Results:
- Use a variety of apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a more complex flavor.
- Don’t overmix the apples with the cinnamon mixture, or they’ll turn out mushy.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar and maple syrup to your taste preferences.
FAQ:
Can I use gluten-free oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes! Gluten-free rolled oats will work just fine in this recipe.
Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeling is optional, but it’s recommended to get a nice smooth texture and even cooking.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients and bake it in a larger baking dish.
Conclusion:
There you have it! A simple and healthy recipe that is perfect for any occasion. These cinnamon-baked apples are
Substitutions and Variations
As a nutritionist and food blogger, I understand the importance of making substitutions and variations in recipes that fit your dietary needs. If you’re looking to switch up the Gluten-Free Cinna-Baked Apples recipe, here are some helpful suggestions:
– Butter or Margarine: Swap out butter for dairy-free alternatives like coconut oil or vegan margarine to make this recipe dairy-free.
– Rolled Oats: If you don’t have rolled oats on hand, you can substitute them with quinoa flakes or almond flour for a grain-free option.
– Granola Cereal: For added crunch, try swapping granola cereal with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts.
– Maple Syrup: If you don’t have maple syrup, feel free to use honey, agave nectar, or another liquid sweetener of your choice.
– Apples: For variety, try using different types of apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady. You can also cut the apples differently – slicing them thicker or thinner than suggested in the recipe.
– Baked Apple Slices: Instead of baking whole apples, slice them into thin pieces and bake them on a sheet pan for a fun twist on apple chips.
– Stuffed Apples: If you’re feeling creative, halve the apples and remove the core. Stuff them with a mixture of cinnamon sugar spiced apples and bake them for a delectable apple dessert.
With these substitutions and variations in mind, you can customize this recipe to suit your personal tastes and dietary restrictions. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun in the kitchen!
Serving and Pairing
Ah, the moment has arrived! You have baked up a batch of these delicious, gluten-free cinna-baked apples and now you get to enjoy them. The taste is just too good to be true – the sweetness of the apples mixed with the warmth and spice of the cinnamon makes for a perfect pairing that will leave you wanting more.
These cinnamon baked apples are not only tasty, but they are also incredibly versatile. They can be served alone as a nutritious snack or dessert, or even as a sweet breakfast option. If you’re feeling fancy, try using them as part of a dessert spread; you can pair them with some vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to make an exquisite combination.
If you want a healthier option, pair these baked apples with some home-made granola cereal and enjoy them as a healthy breakfast item. You can even make use of any leftover granola from the recipe by sprinkling it over your bowl of apples for added crunchiness.
If you’d like an extra treat, use a drizzle of maple syrup topping on each apple serving. Or spice things up and add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar and pecans on top for more pizzazz.
No matter how you choose to serve and pair these cinnamon baked apples, one thing is certain: they’re going to be everyone’s favorite!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Sometimes you just don’t have the time to make a fresh batch of baked apples every day. That’s why I love this recipe for its make-ahead, storing and reheating options.
If you want to make these gluten-free cinna-baked apples ahead of time, simply prepare the recipe and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days without baking them. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven as directed and bake until they’re perfectly cooked. This way, you can enjoy a delicious dessert any day of the week without having to do any prep work on that day.
When it comes to storing leftover baked apples, be sure to let it cool down completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven for an easy and quick treat.
But here’s a pro-tip: If possible, try not to over-bake your gluten-free cinna-baked apples because that can cause them to turn mushy when reheated. Instead, bake them until they are just barely golden brown so that they hold their shape even after reheating.
Whether eaten fresh out of the oven or reheated as leftovers, these gluten-free cinna-baked apples will surely hit the spot!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making gluten-free cinna-baked apples, there are a few tricks that can help you achieve the perfect dish. Here are some tips to make sure your dessert turns out delicious every time!
1. Choose the Right Apples:
For this recipe, I recommend using small to medium apples that are firm and not too sweet. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Rome or Jonagold apples work well.
2. Cut Slices Thinly:
When preparing the apple slices for baking, make sure to cut them thin so that they cook evenly. This will also make the texture of the dish more enjoyable.
3. Add Enough Liquid:
Adding enough liquid to your baking dish is essential to prevent your cinna-baked apples from drying out. If you notice that there isn’t enough liquid in your dish while baking, add a splash of water.
4. Use Room Temperature Butter or Margarine:
For the cinnamon topping, it’s important to use room temperature butter or margarine as it mixes well with the other ingredients.
5. Make Sure Your Oven is Preheated:
Preheat your oven to 375°F at least 20 minutes before you bake your cinna-baked apples. This will ensure that your dessert bakes evenly and doesn’t burn or undercook.
6. Check for Doneness:
After 30 minutes of baking, check for doneness by piercing an apple with a fork – it should be soft but still hold its shape.
7. Cool Before Serving:
Allow your baked apples to cool slightly before serving as the filling will be very hot straight out of the oven.
8. Experiment with Toppings:
Cinna-baked apples are great when served on their own, but you can also drizzle them with maple syrup or serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, these gluten-free cinna-baked apples will satisfy your craving for a warm, spiced dessert while keeping things healthy and allergy-friendly. With the right ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a delicious and nutritious dessert that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a sweet treat without the guilt, this recipe is sure to please.
So go ahead and give it a try! Experiment with different variations and substitutions to find your perfect combination. And don’t forget to share your creations with family and friends – they’ll be sure to appreciate the effort you put into crafting such a tasty treat.
With the health benefits of apples and the warmth of cinnamon-spice, there are many reasons to love these cinna-baked apples. Whether you prefer oats or granola-toppings or enjoy them on their own, these baked apples are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe arsenal. So why not indulge in some dessert guilt-free? Give this recipe a try today and experience the deliciousness for yourself!
Gluten Free Cinna-Baked Apples Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup enjoy life cinnamon crunch granola cereal
- 3 apples, cored and top removed
- 1/2 cup apple juice
- 1 cup water
- 3 teaspoons butter or 3 teaspoons margarine
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Slice off top of apples and remove the core. Place the apples in a glass-baking dish, cut a little off the bottom if necessary for them to stand. Fill apples with granola and place back in baking dish. Add juice and water to the pan. Place 1 tablespoon of butter on top of each apple and sprinkle with cinnamon. Bake the apples at 375°F for 45 minutes or until apples are tender. Baste apples with juice and water mixture if desired.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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