Why Spiced Apples Is a Great Healthy Dessert
While I love indulging in desserts, I often seek healthier options that still satisfy my sweet tooth. That’s why spiced apples are a fantastic choice. They combine the natural sweetness of apples with delightful spices, making them a guilt-free treat.
Apples are packed with fiber and essential nutrients, keeping me feeling full and energized. Plus, they’re low in calories, which means I can enjoy a generous serving without any guilt.
The added spices and a touch of sweetness from cinnamon candies elevate the flavor, transforming a simple fruit into a deliciously satisfying dessert. It’s a win-win for my cravings and my health!
Ingredients of Spiced Apples
When it comes to whipping up a quick and delicious dessert, spiced apples are a total game changer. They’re simple, satisfying, and use ingredients that you might already have lying around in your kitchen.
Plus, there’s something almost magical about the way the apples soften and soak up all that sweet cinnamon goodness. Seriously, who wouldn’t want to plunge into a warm bowl of cinnamon candy spiced apples? They’re like a hug in dessert form, without the guilt.
So, let’s take a peek at what you’ll need to make this delightful treat.
Ingredients for Spiced Apples:
- 8 Granny Smith apples
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup red cinnamon candies
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients a bit. First off, Granny Smith apples are perfect for this recipe because they’re tart and hold their shape well when cooked.
If you can’t find them, feel free to swap in another variety, but keep in mind that some apples can turn mushy. The white sugar is just there to enhance the sweetness, while the lemon juice adds a bit of brightness and helps prevent the apples from browning.
And let’s not forget those red cinnamon candies. They’re the secret weapon that gives this dish its signature flavor and a touch of color. Just imagine those little gems melting into the apples, creating a sweet, spicy glaze that you won’t be able to resist.
How to Make Spiced Apples
Making spiced apples is as simple as it’s satisfying, and trust me, your kitchen will smell like a cozy fall day while you whip this up.
First things first, grab those 8 Granny Smith apples and peel, core, and slice them. Now, I know what you might be thinking: “Peeling and coring? That sounds like a lot of work.” But don’t worry; it’s actually quite therapeutic. Picture yourself slicing away as the sweet, tart aroma fills the air. Just be careful with that knife—no one wants a trip to the ER when you’re trying to make dessert.
Once your apples are all prepped and ready, toss them into a microwave-safe bowl. Now, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of white sugar and add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. The sugar will give your apples a nice sweetness while the lemon juice brightens things up and keeps them from turning brown.
Finally, let’s not forget about the star of the show—the 1/4 cup of red cinnamon candies. Go ahead and add those, too. Now, mix everything together gently, making sure those apples are well-coated in the sweet, sticky goodness.
Now it’s time for the fun part: microwaving. Pop the bowl into the microwave and set it on high for 15 minutes. But here’s the kicker—make certain to stir it every 5 minutes. This helps the candies melt evenly and guarantees that each apple slice gets an even dose of that heavenly cinnamon flavor.
It’s almost like a mini dance party for your apples in there. After 15 minutes, once everything is soft and syrupy, take them out and let them cool just a bit. You’ll want to dive right in, but be careful; they’ll be hot.
Serve them warm, perhaps over vanilla ice cream or with a sprinkle of nuts for crunch. Seriously, you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can bring so much joy. Enjoy your creation, and remember, the only thing better than the taste is the pride you’ll feel for making it yourself.
Spiced Apples Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve enjoyed the delightful spiced apples, you might find yourself wanting to mix things up a bit. Instead of Granny Smith apples, try Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter twist.
If you’re looking to reduce sugar, substitute the white sugar with honey or maple syrup. For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg.
You can also switch out the red cinnamon candies for cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon.
Feeling adventurous? Toss in some dried cranberries or nuts for added texture.
These variations can elevate your spiced apples, making each batch uniquely delicious!
What to Serve with Spiced Apples
What pairs well with the warm, sweet flavors of spiced apples? I love serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream; the creaminess beautifully balances the spices.
You could also try them with fluffy pancakes or waffles for a delightful breakfast treat.
For a cozy dessert, serve spiced apples over a buttery pastry or as a filling in crepes. A dollop of whipped cream adds a lovely touch, too.
If you’re feeling adventurous, pair them with a sharp cheddar cheese for a sweet-and-savory contrast. Each option enhances the apples’ flavors, making your meal even more enjoyable!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your spiced apples turn out perfectly, I recommend using fresh Granny Smith apples, as their tartness balances the sweetness of the cinnamon candies.
Don’t skip the lemon juice; it enhances flavor and prevents browning. If you prefer a little more texture, try leaving the skins on the apples. For a twist, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth.
When microwaving, make sure to stir every five minutes to confirm even cooking.
Finally, serve these spiced apples warm for the best experience, and enjoy them with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat!