Okay, picture this: Is it When it’s a chilly evening, you’re snuggled up on the couch, and that sweet craving hits *hard*. We’ve all been there, right?Microwave Baked Apples.Is it like a warm Apple Pie hug in the bowl, but ready in 5 minutes? Think of the classic baked apples your grandma used to make, but without all the fuss. What are some of the best cinnamon apple recipes? Is it easier to make a mug cake? What is a lifesaver for busy weeknights and lazy weekends? I promise, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
What is microwave baked apple?
So, what *are* Microwave Baked Apples, exactly? It’s essentially a single-serving apple dessert that’s cooked entirely in the microwave. Think of it as a deconstructed Apple Pie filling, all warm, gooey, and spiced to perfection. The name says it all, really! You take an apple (I usually go for a Honeycrisp or Gala, they hold their shape so well!), core it, stuff it with a delicious mixture of butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and maybe a few oats for texture, and then nuke it until it’s soft and tender. It’s essentially speed-baking at its finest. I always top mine with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for that extra touch of indulgence. Honestly, it’s one of the simplest desserts you can whip up, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser (even if the crowd is just you!).
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are the reasons why I love this book?Microwave Baked Apples. recipe, but let me try to narrow it down. First off, the flavor is incredible. You get that warm, comforting spice from the cinnamon, the sweetness from the Brown Sugar, and the slight tang from the apple itself. It’s a total flavor explosion in your mouth! Secondly, the simplicity is mind-blowing. Seriously, it takes about 2 minutes to prep and 3 minutes to cook. That’s faster than ordering takeout! And let’s talk about cost-efficiency – apples are relatively inexpensive, and you probably already have most of the other ingredients in your pantry. What I love most about this is its versatility. You can customize the filling with nuts, dried fruit, chocolate chips, or even a splash of rum extract for a boozy twist! It’s also a fantastic alternative when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to bake a whole pie. It’s portion-controlled, satisfying, and guilt-free (well, almost!). Trust me; this recipe is a game-changer, and it’s become a staple in my house, especially when the weather starts to cool down. I even love making it for breakfast sometimes – just add a sprinkle of granola on top for a little extra crunch.
How do you make microwave baked apples?
Quick Overview
Making Microwave Baked Apples. is incredibly easy. Simply core an apple, mix together the filling ingredients (usually butter, Brown Sugar, cinnamon, and oats), stuff the apple, and microwave until tender. Top with your favorite toppings and enjoy! It’s seriously that simple. The best part? This method is so much faster than traditional baking, making it perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can have a warm, comforting dessert ready to go!
Ingredients
For the Apple:
1 medium apple (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji work best) – Choose firm apples that hold their shape well. When microwaving Avoid apples that are too soft or mealy.
For the Filling:
1 tablespoon butter, softened – Unsalted or salted butter works, depending on your preference. I usually use unsalted and add a pinch of salt to the filling.
1 tablespoon Brown Sugar – Light or dark brown, both taste amazing. Dark brown sugar will give it a richer, molasses-like flavor.
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Fresh cinnamon is always best, but store bought works perfectly fine.
1 tablespoon rolled oats (optional) – Adds a nice chewy texture to the filling. If you prefer a smoother filling, you can omit this.
Pinch of salt – Enhances the sweetness and brings out the other flavors.
Optional Toppings
Vanilla Ice Cream is made with vanilla
Whipped cream
Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts): What are
Caramel sauce
What are the steps required
Step 1: Prepare the Apple
First, wash and dry your apple. Using an apple corer or a sharp knife, carefully remove the core, leaving about 1/2 inch of apple at the end. What is a bowl for filling? I always do this over a cutting board to avoid any accidents!
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, Brown Sugar, cinnamon, oats (if using), and salt. Mix well. Mix everything well until everything is evenly combined. What is the best way to make a crumbly mixture?
Step 3: Stuff the Apple
Spoon the filling into the cored apple, packing it down gently. If you want to fill it to the top, don’t overstuff it. Any extra filling can be sprinkled around the apple in the bowl or plate.
Step 4: Microwave
Place the stuffed apple in a microwave-safe bowl or plate. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the apple is soft and tender. What is the cooking time for a microwave? I usually check it every 30 seconds after the initial 2 minutes to make sure it doesn’t explode!
Step 5: Let it Cool Slightly
Carefully remove the apple from the microwave (it will be hot!) Let it cool for a few minutes before adding your favorite toppings. Why does Ice Cream melt so quickly?
Step 6: Add Toppings and Serve
Top with vanilla Ice Cream, a dollop of whipped cream and chopped nuts. I love to add a sprinkle of cinnamon to this recipe.
What should I serve it with?
This Microwave Baked Apples.Is it good on its own?What is a good breakfast?I love serving this with a dollop of Greek yogurt and granola. What’s a good way to start the day?For an elegant brunch:Serve it in a ramekin with freshly brewed coffee or tea. A sprig of mint on top adds a touch of sophistication.As a comforting dessert:What’s good with vanilla Ice Cream? What are some of the best ways to serve caramel sauce with nuts? What is my personal favorite, toasted pecans and warm caramel?What is a cozy snack?Enjoy it warm with a glass of milk or hot cocoa. What are some of the best ways to enjoy a chilly evening? My family tradition is to make these on Christmas Eve while we’re decorating the tree. What is the smell of cinnamon in your house?
How do you bake a baked apple in the microwave?
Want to take your own life?Microwave Baked Apples to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years:
Apple Choice: Use firm apples that hold their shape well during microwaving, such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji. Avoid apples that are too soft or mealy. Granny Smith apples work too, but I find they are too tart, so I add a little extra brown sugar to balance the flavor.
Butter Softening: Make sure your butter is softened before mixing it with the other filling ingredients. This will help it combine more easily and create a smoother filling. If you forget to take the butter out of the fridge ahead of time, you can microwave it for a few seconds until it’s soft, but be careful not to melt it completely.
Filling Customization: Get creative with your filling! Add chopped nuts, dried fruit, chocolate chips, or a splash of rum extract for a boozy twist. I’ve even tried adding a spoonful of peanut butter, and it was surprisingly delicious!
Microwave Timing: The cooking time will vary depending on your microwave, so start with 2 minutes and add more time as needed. Check the apple every 30 seconds after the initial 2 minutes to make sure it doesn’t explode. You want the apple to be soft and tender, but not mushy.
Topping Ideas: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings! Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, chopped nuts, caramel sauce, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of honey are all fantastic options. One time, I even tried topping it with a scoop of cheesecake ice cream, and it was divine!
Salt: Don’t skip the pinch of salt in the filling! It enhances the sweetness and brings out the other flavors. It’s a small addition, but it makes a big difference.
Storing and Reheating Tips
While Microwave Baked Apples are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers for later:
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the leftovers within a few hours, you can leave them at room temperature. Cover them with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through.
Freezer Instructions: I don’t recommend freezing these, as the texture of the apple can become mushy when thawed. However, if you must freeze them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to store the apples, it’s best to add the toppings just before serving. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or melting in the refrigerator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to recipe for Microwave Baked Apples! It’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. It’s truly the perfect dessert for those moments when you need a sweet treat without the hassle. I absolutely love how versatile it is, and I encourage you to experiment with different fillings and toppings to find your perfect combination. I hope you give this recipe a try and love it as much as I do! If you’re a fan of easy microwave desserts, you might also enjoy my microwave chocolate lava cake or my microwave peanut butter fudge. Happy baking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out – leave a comment below and let me know what toppings you used!
Microwave Baked Apples
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium apples Apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended
- 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon Nutmeg
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Core the apples, leaving about 1/2 inch at the bottom.
- Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl.
- Fill the cored apples with the spice mixture.
- Microwave on high for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.