Delicious Baked Apples with Creamy Cinnamon Sauce

This delightful dessert combines the comforting flavors of baked apples with a rich, creamy cinnamon sauce. It's a dish that is both simple and elegant, perfect for any occasion. The tartness of the apples balances wonderfully with the sweet and spiced sauce, making it a favorite for those who appreciate the warmth of cinnamon. With a preparation and cooking time of just 20 minutes, it’s a quick dessert that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s a great way to use up seasonal apples, offering them in a novel and flavorful way. The simple combination of ingredients results in a dish that is both healthy and indulgent, appealing to a wide variety of taste palates. Whether served warm or cold, this dish can be customized to suit individual tastes. Its elegance makes it suitable for a family dinner or a dinner party. Pair it with ice cream or just enjoy it on its own; it’s versatile enough to impress in either scenario.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

Apples (as many as desired)

For the Sauce:

Sour cream (1 cup)
Ground cinnamon (to taste)
Sugar or powdered sugar (to taste)

Preparation Time

Total Time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 280 degrees Fahrenheit.
Carefully core each apple to remove the seeds and create a hollow center.
Place the apples upright on a baking tray.
Bake the apples in the preheated oven.
Check the apples frequently; they are done when they start to split and become tender.
While the apples are baking, prepare the cinnamon sauce.
In a bowl, combine the sour cream with a pinch of ground cinnamon.
Gradually add sugar or powdered sugar to the mixture, adjusting to your preferred level of sweetness and spice.
Mix the ingredients until smooth and well combined.
Once the apples are finished baking, remove them from the oven.
Carefully transfer the baked apples to serving plates.
Before serving, pour a generous amount of the creamy cinnamon sauce into the hollowed-out center of each apple.
The remaining sauce can be drizzled over the top of the apples for extra flavor.
Let the apples cool slightly before serving to enhance the presentation and prevent burns.
Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for decoration and added flavor.
If desired, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
This dish can be enjoyed warm, as the heat enhances the flavors of the spices and complements the creamy sauce.
For a cold version, allow the apples to chill before adding the sauce and serving.
This recipe is adaptable; you can adjust the sugar and cinnamon to your taste preferences easily.
Remember that the quality of apples can vary, so choose ones that are firm and fresh for the best results.

Tips

Try using different apple varieties for unique flavors.
Substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier sauce.
Add a handful of raisins or nuts into the apple centers before baking for added texture.
This recipe can be made vegan by using coconut cream instead of sour cream and a sweetener of your choice.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 200 calories per serving (depends on the amount of sugar used)
Protein: 2g
Fats: 10g
Carbohydrates: 25g

Variations

For a nutty touch, add finely chopped walnuts or almonds to the sauce.
Use a dash of nutmeg along with cinnamon for a spicier kick.
Lemon zest can be added to the sauce for a citrusy contrast.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
Pair with a chilled glass of apple cider for a thematic pairing.
A round of soft Brie cheese complements the dish for a savory twist.

Best Places

Cafe du Monde - Known for its beignets and café au lait, this cafe offers a wonderful atmosphere. Location: 800 Decatur St, New Orleans, USA.
Balthazar - Offering classic French bakery products as well as a renowned brunch menu. Location: 80 Spring St, New York, USA.
Café Central - Famous for its luxurious setting and traditional Viennese sweets. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
Antico Caffe Greco - A historic cafe in Rome widely known for its fine coffees and pastries. Location: Via dei Condotti 86, Rome, Italy.
Café de la Paix - Offers a lavish experience with exceptional desserts and elegant settings. Location: 5 Place de l'Opéra, Paris, France.
El Nacional - A multi-space venue in Barcelona with possibly the best churros in Spain. Location: Passeig de Gracia, 24 Bis, Barcelona, Spain.
Bettys Café Tea Rooms - Known for its afternoon tea and pastries. Location: 6-8 St. Helen’s Square, York, England.
Café Landtmann - A staple for classic Austrian pastries in an elegant cafe setting. Location: Universitätsring 4, Vienna, Austria.
Cafe Majestic - Notable for its Art Nouveau decor and splendid desserts. Location: Rua Santa Catarina 112, Porto, Portugal.
Demel - A legendary pastry shop offering some of the finest cakes and sweet treats. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.