Pecan Baked Apples

 Pecan Baked Apples

These remind me of so many sweet memories of my childhood.  We would go to the apple orchard to pick our apples and we could always count on my Mom to make hot apple cider and baked apples that night for dessert.  Comfort food at its best! These apples are partially scooped out, packed full of delicious goodness, and then baked until sweet and tender.  How's that for simple and sweet?

Pecan Baked Apples

4 large baking apples, such as Honey Crisp or Golden Delicious

4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter, softened

¾ teaspoon cinnamon

¼ cup chopped pecans

Preheat your oven to 375°degrees.  Line a baking dish with aluminum foil.

Wash and core apples, leaving enough of the core at the base of the apple to contain the filling. If using a paring knife, first cut out the stem area and then use a small metal spoon to scoop out the seeds. Cut the holes so that they are an inch or so wide.

Combine the butter, brown sugar, cinnamon and chopped pecans in a small bowl. Roll the mixture into small log shapes and press enough into each apple to fill the core.  Top each apple with any additional mixture you might have.

Fill a 2-quart baking dish with about 3/4 cup water, or enough to cover the bottom. Place the apples upright in the dish. Use aluminum foil in between apples to help keep them upright.  Bake until the apples are cooked through and tender, but not overcooked and mushy. Usually about 1 hour.  

When done, remove the apples from the oven and baste them with the juices from the pan. Terrific with a side of vanilla ice cream. Drizzle with caramel ice cream topping.

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