Name: Baked Apple Halves Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-490280H26M1S
Total time: PT-490280H26M1S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 Tablespoons butter; ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed; ⅓ cup all purpose flour; ⅔ cup rolled oats; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; 1 dash nutmeg; 1 pinch salt; 4 large baking apples; ½ cup water

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 78 reviews

If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Baked Apple Halves Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, baked apple halves bursting with a cozy filling of oats, cinnamon, and brown sugar, baked to perfection so every bite melts in your mouth. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, spice, and buttery goodness, and it’s surprisingly simple to make with just a handful of wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re making an after-dinner treat or a weekend indulgence, this recipe brings comfort and flavor together beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a round white pan with red handles placed on a white marbled textured surface. Inside the pan, there are eight apple halves arranged in a circle, four of which have a clump of oat mixture placed in their hollow centers, while the other four are empty. The apple halves have red skins and white flesh. To the top left of the pan, there is a clear glass bowl with some oat mixture inside. A green cloth is casually placed to the top right of the pan. The setting is lit with natural light giving a fresh, homey feel photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each plays a key role in creating the magic. From the rich butter that brings moisture and flavor, to the oats and spices that add texture and warmth, every element contributes to this classic dessert’s charm.

6 Tablespoons butter: This is your flavor base and helps create a luscious, golden oat topping.
⅓ cup light brown sugar packed: Adds sweetness with a subtle hint of molasses depth.
⅓ cup all purpose flour: Helps bind all the filling ingredients, giving structure to the topping.
⅔ cup rolled oats: Provides delightful chewiness and rustic texture to the filling.
½ teaspoon cinnamon: A warm spice that perfectly complements the apples.
1 dash nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty spice to elevate the flavor profile.
1 pinch salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
4 large baking apples: Choose a firm variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture.
½ cup water: Keeps the apples moist during baking so they become tender but not dry.

How to Make Baked Apple Halves Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Filling Mixture

Begin by melting the butter in a large ovenproof skillet. Once melted, pour the butter into a medium mixing bowl and add the brown sugar, flour, rolled oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Use a spoon or whisk to combine these ingredients well until you get a crumbly, textured mixture full of sweet, buttery goodness.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Wash the apples thoroughly and slice each one in half through the stem. Next, carefully core each half with a spoon, small knife, or melon baller, creating a little cavity ready to hold the delicious filling. This step ensures the apples will bake evenly and soak up the flavors perfectly.

Step 3: Assemble in the Skillet

Place the apple halves skin side down in the skillet, which should be lightly greased from the melted butter you started with. Now, press the oat filling mixture into each hollowed apple half, packing it gently but firmly. Pour the water evenly around the apples in the skillet to keep everything nice and moist during baking.

Step 4: Bake the Apple Halves

Cover the skillet tightly with foil or a lid and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. After this initial covered phase, remove the cover and continue baking for 30 to 40 minutes more until the apples become nicely fork-tender but still hold their shape. The oat topping will develop a slightly caramelized crust, making each bite a perfect combination of soft fruit and crunchy topping.

How to Serve Baked Apple Halves Recipe

The image shows a white round dish filled with eight apple halves arranged in a circle. Each apple half is red or yellow with its core removed and stuffed with a crumbly oat mixture that looks golden brown and textured with oats on top. The white marbled textured surface is faintly visible around the dish. The dish and apples have a slight shine from syrup or juice. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your baked apple halves by topping them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or fresh mint leaves can add a pop of texture and freshness that complements the baked flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This warm dessert pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee, spiced chai, or even a glass of sweet dessert wine. For a more substantial treat, serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream or creamy Greek yogurt to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests? Serve each baked apple half in individual ramekins or elegant shallow bowls. You can also add a cinnamon stick as a rustic stirrer when paired with a hot drink, or sprinkle some extra cinnamon and a light dusting of powdered sugar for a charming, finished look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover baked apple halves store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them covered to maintain moisture and prevent the topping from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze baked apple halves by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that the texture of the oats may soften slightly upon thawing.

Reheating

Reheat your baked apple halves gently in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them on medium power in short bursts, but oven reheating helps maintain the best texture in both the apple and the oat topping.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples in this recipe?

Absolutely! While firm baking apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best to hold their shape, you can experiment with Fuji, Pink Lady, or Gala apples if you prefer a sweeter, softer result.

Is it necessary to use rolled oats?

Rolled oats add a lovely texture and absorb the butter and spices well, creating the perfect crumble topping. If you don’t have oats, you might try chopped nuts or crushed cereal flakes, but the texture will differ.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut sugar or another natural sweetener instead of brown sugar if needed. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly.

What if I don’t have an ovenproof skillet?

No worries! Use a baking dish or casserole pan instead. Just brush it with melted butter or oil to prevent sticking, and follow the recipe steps as usual.

How do I know when the apples are done?

The apples should be fork-tender but not mushy. You want them soft enough to enjoy easily but still holding their shape to support that delicious topping. Baking time can vary slightly depending on the apple variety and size, so test with a fork after 40 to 50 minutes total baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Baked Apple Halves Recipe inspires you to bring a bit of warm, fragrant comfort into your kitchen. It’s simple, yet so satisfying—the kind of dessert that fills your home with irresistible aromas and your heart with cozy happiness. So grab those apples, mix up the filling, and enjoy this delightful treat any time you need a little sweetness in your day!

Baked Apple Halves Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need