Cinnamon Baked Apples

These Cinnamon Baked Apples are a warm, spiced, and naturally sweetened dessert that’s simple to make and sure to please. Made with a mix of tart and sweet apples, this plant-based, gluten-free treat is tossed with coconut sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and a touch of nutmeg—then baked until caramelized and tender. Serve with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or coconut whipped cream for a cozy dessert that’s perfect for holidays or anytime comfort is needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Naturally sweetened: Uses coconut sugar for a rich, caramel-like flavor

• Allergy-friendly: Gluten-free, grain-free, vegan, and dairy-free

• Minimal prep: Just one bowl and a baking dish

• Comforting and nostalgic: All the warm spices of a classic apple pie without the crust

• Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and reheat as needed

• Crowd-pleasing: Perfect for holidays or simple weeknight desserts

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Baked Apples:

• apples (a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)

• lemon juice

• coconut oil (optional, for richness)

• coconut sugar (or organic cane sugar; can sub with stevia to taste)

• ground cinnamon

• fresh grated ginger (or ground, if preferred)

• ground nutmeg

• cornstarch or arrowroot starch (to thicken the sauce)

• fresh apple juice or water

• sea salt

Optional for Serving:

• coconut whipped cream

• vanilla bean coconut ice cream

Directions

1. Preheat Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Prepare the Apples
   Peel, core, and quarter the apples. Thinly slice lengthwise using a sharp knife or mandoline. Try to slice them evenly for consistent cooking.

3. Combine Ingredients
   Place the sliced apples in the baking dish. Add lemon juice, coconut oil (if using), coconut sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cornstarch (or arrowroot), apple juice (or water), and a pinch of sea salt. Toss everything together until evenly coated.

4. Bake Covered
   Loosely cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

5. Uncover and Finish Baking
   Carefully remove the foil and continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, or until the apples are fork-tender and the sauce is bubbling and slightly caramelized.

6. Serve
   Serve warm as-is, or topped with coconut whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla coconut ice cream.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 baked apples
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Add nuts: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts before baking for extra crunch.

• Spice it up: Add cloves or allspice for deeper holiday spice.

• Make it buttery: Use vegan butter instead of coconut oil for a richer flavor.

• Use maple syrup: Drizzle maple syrup before baking for added sweetness and depth.

• Top with granola: For texture, sprinkle granola over the apples just before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: Freeze baked apples in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (176°C) oven, covered, or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water if the sauce becomes too thick.

FAQs

What are the best apples to use?

A mix of tart and sweet apples (like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp) creates the best flavor balance and texture.

Can I skip the coconut oil?

Yes, the oil is optional. It adds a touch of richness but isn’t essential to the dish.

Can I use ground ginger instead of fresh?

Yes, substitute ¼ teaspoon ground ginger for the fresh if needed.

How thin should I slice the apples?

The thinner the better for even cooking, but aim for about ⅛-inch thick for ideal texture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Bake ahead and reheat as needed for a quick, cozy dessert.

Can I make this sugar-free?

Yes. You can substitute part or all of the coconut sugar with stevia or a monk fruit sweetener to taste.

Will the sauce thicken without cornstarch?

It may thicken slightly from the natural apple starch, but cornstarch or arrowroot helps create a glossy, syrupy sauce.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes, it’s delicious chilled, though the flavor is richest when served warm.

What if I don’t have apple juice?

Use water instead—apple juice just adds a touch of extra sweetness and flavor.

Is this kid-friendly?

Very much so! It’s naturally sweet, soft in texture, and filled with warm cinnamon apple flavor.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Baked Apples are a naturally sweet, cozy dessert that brings all the flavors of fall and holiday baking with none of the fuss. Perfect for entertaining or everyday indulgence, this easy recipe requires just one bowl and a handful of ingredients to create a tender, spiced apple dish that everyone will love—especially when topped with a scoop of vegan ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream.

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