There’s something deeply comforting about cozy desserts that feel like a warm hug, and these Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon deliver just that. Sweet, tender apple wedges mingle with melted butter, brown sugar, and a generous sprinkle of cinnamon, creating a caramel-kissed masterpiece that’s both simple and soul-soothing. As they bake, the apples release their juices, mingling with brown sugar to form a delicate syrup that bubbles up around the edges of the dish, inviting you to dive right in. Whether you’re easing into a lazy weekend morning or seeking the perfect sweet ending to a busy day, these cinnamon-spiced apple slices are the kind of homemade magic that brings a smile to every face around the table.
What makes this recipe so charming is its sheer approachability. With a total preparation time of just 15 minutes, followed by 35 minutes of baking (plus a quick 5-minute rest), you’ll go from coring apples to savoring a fragrant dessert in just over an hour. It’s classified as a beginner-friendly treat—no fancy techniques required—yet the results feel gourmet. At around 250 calories per serving, it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and mindful eating. Course-wise, it sits proudly in the dessert category but can also moonlight as a healthy snack or comforting breakfast topper. Grab your baking dish, round up a few simple ingredients, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the warm, spicy notes that only cinnamon and baked apples can deliver.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BAKED APPLE SLICES WITH CINNAMON
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and aroma. From the crisp tang of apples to the rich sweetness of brown sugar, here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component matters:
- Granny Smith apples
Their bright acidity and firm texture ensure the slices hold their shape during baking, balancing the sweetness of sugar and butter with a vibrant, tangy bite.
- Unsalted butter
When melted and drizzled over the apples, it creates a silky coating that helps brown sugar and cinnamon adhere, delivering a luscious mouthfeel and golden color.
- Brown sugar
This moist sugar melts into a sticky syrup that caramelizes around the apple edges, providing deep molasses notes and a rich sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon
A classic warm spice that infuses every slice with its characteristic fragrant, slightly sweet heat, tying all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
- Lemon juice
A splash of acidity prevents the apples from browning prematurely and brightens the overall flavor, cutting through the richness for a fresher finish.
- Water
Added to the baking dish, it generates steam that keeps the apples tender and juicy, ensuring they don’t dry out while roasting.
- Salt
Just a pinch to amplify all the sweet and savory elements, enhancing depth and preventing the dish from tasting flat.
- Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Optional but highly recommended for a satisfying crunch and a nutty dimension that contrasts beautifully with soft, sweet apples.
- Raisins or dried cranberries
These chewy morsels add bursts of tangy sweetness, complementing the cinnamon spice and enriching the texture profile.
HOW TO MAKE BAKED APPLE SLICES WITH CINNAMON
Bringing these cozy baked apple slices to life is a breeze, and each step gently builds on the last to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. From prepping your apples to achieving that irresistible caramelization, here’s how to do it:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Ensuring the oven reaches the right temperature before you start baking sets the stage for even cooking and proper caramelization.
2. Peel and core the apples, then slice them into even pieces, approximately 1/4-inch thick.
Uniform slices guarantee consistent cooking, so take your time to slice evenly for a perfect bite every time.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with lemon juice, ensuring they are well coated to prevent browning.
Toss gently with a spatula or your hands to make sure every slice has a thin protective layer of acidity.
4. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Mix well until the apples are thoroughly coated with the mixture.
Stir vigorously enough that the sugar dissolves slightly in the butter, creating a sticky spice blend that clings to each slice.
5. Transfer the apple slices to a baking dish, spreading them out in an even layer.
An even layer allows hot air to circulate, resulting in uniform roasting without soggy pockets.
6. Pour the water into the dish to create steam during baking, keeping the apple slices tender and moist.
The added moisture prevents the fruit from drying out as the sugars caramelize.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
The foil traps steam, gently cooking the apples through before any direct browning begins.
8. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and stir the apples to ensure even cooking.
Give the slices a careful toss to redistribute juices and expose more surface area for caramelization.
9. If desired, sprinkle the optional chopped nuts and raisins or dried cranberries over the top for added texture and flavor.
This step adds delightful crunchy and chewy contrasts to the soft, juicy apples.
10. Return the dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and caramelized around the edges.
Keep an eye on the dish—once the sugars begin to bubble and the edges take on a golden brown hue, it’s ready.
11. Once the apples are done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Allowing a brief rest helps the caramel sauce thicken and cling to each slice for maximum deliciousness.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BAKED APPLE SLICES WITH CINNAMON
Turning these baked apple slices into a memorable presentation can be as simple or as extravagant as you like. Whether you’re enjoying them solo or sharing with loved ones, here are four creative ways to serve and elevate this cozy dessert:
- Over Vanilla Ice Cream
Pile warm apple slices atop a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The contrast of hot and cold creates a heavenly texture, and the melting ice cream blends with the cinnamon syrup for an indulgent sauce.
- Swirled Into Oatmeal
Stir a spoonful of the softened apples and caramel syrup into a bowl of hot oatmeal. This not only sweetens your breakfast naturally but also infuses each bite with comforting spice and fruitiness.
- Garnished with Fresh Herbs
Arrange the apple slices on a serving platter and sprinkle with finely chopped fresh mint or rosemary. The herbal notes add a surprising brightness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Packed in Parfait Cups
Layer the baked apples with Greek yogurt and granola in clear cups or jars. This creates an elegant parfait that’s perfect for brunch, gatherings, or a grab-and-go treat.
HOW TO STORE BAKED APPLE SLICES WITH CINNAMON
Ensuring these spiced apple slices stay fresh and flavorful after baking is straightforward with the right storage techniques. Whether you plan to enjoy leftovers the next day or prepare batches in advance, here’s how to maintain that tender texture and robust cinnamon flavor:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer the apple slices and any remaining syrup to a sealed container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days; the flavors often meld and deepen overnight.
- Freeze for longer preservation
Portion the cooled slices into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat gently
To revive their fresh-baked warmth, microwave individual servings for 30–45 seconds or reheat in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying.
- Pack for portable snacks
After cooling, divide into small snack-sized containers. These are perfect for work lunches or on-the-go treats—just grab and go, then warm up or enjoy at room temperature.
CONCLUSION
Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon are a shining example of how a handful of simple pantry staples can come together to form a deeply satisfying dessert or snack. From the crisp edges of Granny Smith apples to the gooey swirl of brown sugar and cinnamon, this recipe captures the essence of cozy comfort food without demanding hours of hands-on effort. You’ll appreciate how the steam from a splash of water keeps the fruit tender, how a brief foil-covered bake softens the apples, and how a final uncovered stint in the oven delivers that irresistible caramelization. With just a little stirring, sprinkling, and anticipation, you’ll transform ordinary apples into a dish that feels special, whether you’re hosting a gathering, enhancing your breakfast routine, or simply craving something sweet and spiced.
Feel free to print this article or save it for later—having this recipe at your fingertips means you’re always minutes away from filling your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma. Below, you’ll find a FAQ section to answer common questions, from ingredient swaps to reheating tips. If you try out these baked apple slices or have any questions about the process, I’d love to hear from you. Drop a comment with your experience, share any creative twists you’ve added, or ask for troubleshooting advice if you need it. Your feedback helps me refine recipes, and it’s always a joy to connect with fellow home cooks on this delicious cinnamon-scented journey!
Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon
Description
Enjoy tender apple slices coated in cinnamon and brown sugar, baked to caramelized perfection. A warm, inviting dessert that fills your home with sweet aromas.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
Peel and core the apples, then slice them into even pieces, approximately 1/4-inch thick.
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with lemon juice, ensuring they are well coated to prevent browning.
-
Add the melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to the bowl. Mix well until the apples are thoroughly coated with the mixture.
-
Transfer the apple slices to a baking dish, spreading them out in an even layer.
-
Pour the water into the dish to create steam during baking, keeping the apple slices tender and moist.
-
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
-
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and stir the apples to ensure even cooking.
-
If desired, sprinkle the optional chopped nuts and raisins or dried cranberries over the top for added texture and flavor.
-
Return the dish to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and caramelized around the edges.
-
Once the apples are done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Note
- Choosing a mix of apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji along with Granny Smith can add a complex flavor profile.
- Serve these cinnamon apple slices warm over vanilla ice cream or oatmeal for a delightful treat.
- This dish can easily be made vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative.
- For added spice, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cinnamon mixture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
