Experience the sweet simplicity of Bulgarian culinary tradition with these oven-baked apples. A blend of honey, cinnamon, and nuts turns this humble dessert into a heartwarming treat, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Baking time: 30-40 minutes
- Total time: 45-55 minutes
Ingredients (For Four People)
- 4 large apples (preferably tart varieties like Granny Smith or sweet like Gala)
- 4 tablespoons of honey
- 50 grams of walnuts or almonds, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 4 dried plums or raisins (optional)
- Powdered sugar for garnish (optional)
1 tablespoon is circa 15 ml, and a teaspoon is circa 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2: Core the Apples
Wash the apples thoroughly. Remove the cores without cutting through using a corer or a small knife. Ensure the bottom of the apple remains intact to hold the filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix the chopped walnuts or almonds with cinnamon and honey. Stir until well combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Apples
Place the apples in a baking dish. Fill the center of each apple with the honey-nut mixture. Add a dried plum or a few raisins to each apple for extra sweetness.
Step 5: Add Butter
Top each stuffed apple with a small pat of butter. This helps to caramelize the filling and adds richness.
Step 6: Bake the Apples
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes until the apples are soft and their skins start to wrinkle. Baste the apples with their juices halfway through to enhance flavor.
Step 7: Serve the Dessert
Remove the baked apples from the oven and let them cool slightly. If desired, garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Tips and Tricks
- Tart or Sweet: For a more intense flavor contrast, choose tart apples like Granny Smith. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, go for varieties like Gala or Fuji.
- Nut Varieties: For a richer taste, experiment with different types of nuts, such as pecans or hazelnuts.
- Extra Spice: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cloves to the filling mixture for an even more aromatic dessert.
Alternative Preparation Suggestions
- Vegan Option: Replace the butter with coconut oil or omit it for an entirely plant-based dessert.
- Sweeter Addition: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples before serving for a more decadent touch.
Serving Suggestions
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm baked apples with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on the side for a delicious contrast between hot and cold.
- With Bulgarian Yogurt: Pair the dessert with a spoonful of Bulgarian yogurt to balance the sweetness with a touch of tanginess.
- As a Breakfast Treat: Leftover apples can be enjoyed for breakfast, topped with granola and a drizzle of extra honey for a wholesome morning meal.
Wine Pairing
Pair this sweet apple dessert with a glass of Bulgarian Misket wine, which offers light, floral notes that perfectly complement the sweetness of the honey and the crunch of the nuts.
Enjoy this Bulgarian classic and indulge in its comforting flavors!
Nutritional Information (Per serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Sugars: 30g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 10mg
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-Free: This dessert is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerances.
- Dairy-Free/Vegan: Replace butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or margarine, or omit the butter entirely for a fully vegan version.
- Nut-Free: If you are allergic to nuts, skip the walnuts or almonds and substitute sunflower or pumpkin seeds for crunch.
Storage Suggestions
Leftover baked apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To restore their texture, they should be reheated in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10 minutes.
About the Oven-baked Apple
Baked apples have been enjoyed in Bulgarian households for generations, especially during the fall and winter months when apples are in season. This simple yet delightful dessert showcases Bulgaria’s love for using fresh, local ingredients like honey and walnuts.
Cultural Context
In Bulgaria, baked apples are a beloved winter dessert, often served during holidays or on cold evenings—the use of local honey and nuts ties this dish to Bulgaria’s deep agricultural traditions. Honey has long been a symbol of health and prosperity in Bulgarian culture, while walnuts are frequently used in desserts to add texture and flavor. This baked apple recipe embodies simplicity, celebrating Bulgaria’s connection to fresh, wholesome ingredients and its knack for transforming them into something extraordinary.
The combination of fruits, honey, and nuts reflects the Bulgarian affinity for natural sweetness, making this dessert healthy and satisfying. Historically, baked fruits like apples or quinces were a typical treat in rural households during the colder months when fresh fruits were less available.
