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Cozy Slow-Roasted Cinnamon Vanilla Bean Apples

cozy slow-roasted cinnamon vanilla bean apples - featured image
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Tender, slow-roasted apples in a buttery honey-vanilla syrup, perfect for a cozy fall dessert. This easy recipe recreates a beloved café classic with simple, whole ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large apples (Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Pink Lady)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 vanilla bean
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of fine sea salt
  • 1/2 cup water or apple cider
  • Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream (for serving, optional)
  • Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Position a rack in the center.
  2. Wash and dry the apples. Using a sharp paring knife or apple corer, remove the core from each apple, leaving the bottom intact. Cut a small cross on the bottom of each apple to help them sit flat. Using a vegetable peeler, remove a 1-inch strip of peel around the middle of each apple.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, honey, vanilla bean seeds (save the pod), ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mash together with a fork until smooth.
  4. Place the apples upright in a small baking dish. Divide the butter mixture evenly among the cavities of the apples, pressing it down gently.
  5. Tuck the spent vanilla bean pod into the dish between the apples. Pour the water or apple cider into the bottom of the dish, being careful not to wash the filling out of the apples. The liquid should come about 1/4 inch up the sides of the apples.
  6. Cover the dish tightly with foil and roast for 45 minutes.
  7. After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Baste the apples with the juices from the bottom of the dish.
  8. Continue roasting, uncovered, for another 20-30 minutes, until the apples are tender all the way through and the syrup is bubbly and slightly thickened. Total roasting time is about 65-75 minutes.
  9. Remove the dish from the oven and let the apples rest for 5-10 minutes. Discard the vanilla pod.
  10. Serve warm, spooned into shallow bowls with the syrup drizzled over the top. Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream and garnish with fresh mint if desired.

Notes

For best results, use firm apples like Honeycrisp or Braeburn. Do not rush the temperature—low and slow at 300°F is key. Basting halfway through ensures the apples soak up the syrup. A real vanilla bean is highly recommended for the best flavor and visual appeal. To make vegan, substitute butter with vegan butter or coconut oil and use maple syrup instead of honey.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked apples, slow-roasted apples, cinnamon vanilla bean apples, fall dessert, easy dessert, healthy dessert, gluten-free dessert, vegan option

Find it online: https://cooksyla.com/cozy-slow-roasted-cinnamon-vanilla-bean-apples-easy-fall-dessert/