Autumn Baked Apples with Maple Whipped Cream

Baked apples are one of those desserts that I truly love. Throughout the year I'll get on kicks where I make baked apples several times a week, but when fall rolls around I can't resist making the kitchen smell amazing will all the warm spices of apple pie. The great thing about baked apples is they require five ingredients, minimal effort, are a great alternative for those watching their sugar intake, and always look beautiful.

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Autumn Baked Apples

Time: 40 minutes Servings: 4 apples

Ingredients:

• 4 small to medium sized apples (gala, red delicious, ect.)

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup pecan pieces

• 1 tsp. apple pie spice

• 1 TBS. butter

• 1/2 cup boiling water

Directions:

1. Pre-heat oven to 325°

2. Using a pairing knife, remove the core of the apple, leaving the bottom intact (we don't want any filling falling out), use a spoon if necessary to dig out any seeds

3. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, pecan pieces, and apple pie spice

4. Place apples in a small baking dish and evenly spoon the sugar mixture into each apple

5. Top each apple with 1/4 TBS. of butter, then pour the boiling water slowly into the bottom of your baking dish

6. Bake for 30 minutes or until apples are soft and filling is bubbly

7. Remove and let cool 5 minutes then top with maple whipped cream and dig in

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Maple Whipped Cream

Time: 5-10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. heavy whipping cream

• 2 TBS. maple syrup

• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

• pinch of salt

Directions:

1. Place all ingredients in the bowl of a stand mixer or medium size mixing bowl

2. Using the stand mixer or hand mixer, mix on high until stiff peaks form, 5 minutes or so

3. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for one week

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Tips & Tricks

1. I chose to use gala apples for this recipe because I had them on hand. You can use any type of apple you prefer, although I do recommend a more sweet variety for their natural sugars. However, my husband loves granny smith apples and prefers the tart/sweet combo for a dessert.

2. You can also add raisins or dried cranberries to the filling. They'll plump up and become juicy during the cooking process.

3. These baked apples also taste fantastic with ice cream, but the smokiness that the maple syrup gives to the whipped cream enhances all the flavors of the apple!

4. Have leftovers? No problem. Stick the baked apples in the fridge and microwave them for a few seconds when you're ready for more.