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Baked Cinnamon Apples (Healthy Winter Treat) - Cozy, Simple, Delicious

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 4–5 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, Fuji, or a mix)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (optional, to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons water or apple cider
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to brighten and prevent browning)
  • 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional add-ins: 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans, 1 tablespoon raisins or dried cranberries, a pinch of nutmeg or ginger, or 2 tablespoons rolled oats for a “crisp” vibe

Method
 

  1. Heat the oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish.
  2. Prep the apples: Core and slice apples into ¼-inch wedges. Peeling is optional—keep the skins for extra fiber and texture.
  3. Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk cinnamon, maple syrup or honey, vanilla, water or cider, lemon juice, melted coconut oil or butter, and a pinch of salt.
  4. Toss and layer: Add apples to the bowl and coat well. Stir in any optional nuts, dried fruit, or oats. Spread evenly in the baking dish, along with any remaining sauce.
  5. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil, stir gently, and bake another 10–15 minutes until apples are tender but not mushy.
  6. Finish: Let rest for 5 minutes so the juices thicken slightly. Taste and add a drizzle of maple syrup if you want more sweetness.
  7. Serve: Enjoy warm on its own, over yogurt, oatmeal, cottage cheese, or with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream.