Baked Cinnamon Apples are the perfect combination of tender fruit and warm spice, turning a humble apple into a deeply flavorful dessert. Whether served as a standalone sweet, spooned over oatmeal, or paired with a scoop of ice cream, these oven-baked apples deliver a nostalgic, cozy experience. Slow-baked until soft and caramelized, they offer the essence of apple pie—without the crust. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, this dessert is as easy as it is delicious.

What Makes This Dessert Special?

Baked cinnamon apples are the kind of dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl. They’re naturally sweet, spiced just right, and incredibly versatile. Perfect for weeknights, holidays, or when you need a comforting dish with minimal fuss. Plus, they fill the kitchen with the most irresistible aroma while baking, making them a sensory treat from start to finish.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 45–50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

4 large apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith work well)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons water or apple juice
Pinch of salt
Chopped nuts or raisins (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Apples

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel (optional) and core the apples, then slice them into even wedges or chunks. Place them in a mixing bowl.

2. Mix the Flavor Base

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over the apples and toss until evenly coated.

3. Bake the Apples

Transfer the coated apples into a baking dish. Add the water or apple juice to the bottom of the dish. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15–20 minutes, or until apples are fork-tender and caramelized.

4. Serve Warm

Serve straight from the oven, on their own or topped with whipped cream, yogurt, or vanilla ice cream.

Variations

Maple Sweetened: Swap brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a richer flavor.
Crunchy Topping: Add a streusel topping or granola for a bit of crunch.
Spiked Apples: Add a splash of bourbon or rum for an adult twist.
Citrusy Kick: Add a squeeze of lemon or orange zest for brightness.
Stuffed Apples: Halve and core whole apples, stuff with the cinnamon-sugar mix, and bake whole for a beautiful presentation.

Equipment You’ll Need

Mixing bowl
Cutting board and knife
Baking dish
Measuring spoons
Foil

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: ~180
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Sugar: 28g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 1g

(May vary depending on apple variety and optional add-ins.)

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm in the microwave or oven before serving.
Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat gently.

My Cooking Experience

With over 4 years of experience in the kitchen, I’ve made these baked cinnamon apples more times than I can count. They’ve become my go-to when I want a dessert that’s low-effort but still packed with flavor. I love how flexible this recipe is—sometimes I’ll add chopped walnuts for texture or toss in a handful of raisins for a bit of sweetness. It’s simple, satisfying, and always gets requests for seconds.

Conclusion

Baked Cinnamon Apples are proof that the best desserts don’t have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a warm and comforting dish that’s full of flavor and nostalgia. Whether you’re enjoying them on a quiet night in or serving them to guests, these apples are a guaranteed hit. Keep this recipe in your back pocket—you’ll be glad you did.