If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dessert that’s both simple and bursting with warm spices, the Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon and Nutmeg Recipe is absolutely perfect. These tender, fragrant apple slices bathed in cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of vanilla create a naturally sweet and wholesome treat. Whether you’re serving it as a light dessert, a breakfast topper, or an anytime snack, this easy-to-make dish is sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward yet so essential for crafting that perfect balance of sweet, warm, and buttery flavors. Each component enhances the texture or aroma, coming together beautifully to make this dish sing.
- 4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): These apples offer the ideal balance of tartness and sweetness and hold up wonderfully when baked.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps the spices cling to the apple slices.
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar: Brings a deep, molasses-like sweetness that caramelizes beautifully during baking.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Provides warmth and classic spice flavor that defines this recipe.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty, sweet-earthy note that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the natural flavors and adds a smooth aromatic layer.
- A pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
- Optional toppings (vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, chopped nuts): Great for adding texture and extra indulgence when serving.
How to Make Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon and Nutmeg Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, pop your oven on to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a snap. This simple prep sets you up for perfect baking results.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Mixture
In a large bowl, toss your peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples with the melted butter, light brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Make sure every slice gets coated evenly—this step is where all the flavors start to meld together and create magic.
Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the apple slices out in a single, even layer on your lined baking sheet. Avoid overlapping to ensure each slice bakes evenly and develops that lovely caramelized edge.
Step 4: Bake Until Tender and Caramelized
Bake the apples for 20 to 25 minutes, giving them a gentle stir halfway through the cooking time. When done, the slices should be tender, fragrant, and slightly caramelized, offering a tender bite with warm spice notes that sing.
Step 5: Serve
Let your baked apple slices cool just a little bit so they’re warm but not scorching. This state is ideal for serving with creamy toppings like vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if you like. Either way, it’s delicious and comforting every single time.
How to Serve Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon and Nutmeg Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can elevate your Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon and Nutmeg Recipe to next-level deliciousness. A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting over the warm slices creates a wonderful contrast in temperature and flavor. Alternatively, a swirl of fluffy whipped cream adds lightness, while a sprinkle of chopped nuts delivers crunch and a nutty depth.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with breakfast favorites like oatmeal or yogurt, where the spiced apple slices add natural sweetness and dimension. For a dessert option, consider serving alongside warm pancakes or waffles, making every bite of your morning feel indulgent yet wholesome.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these baked apple slices layered with granola and yogurt in parfait glasses for a stunning breakfast or snack presentation. Or fold them into warm pancakes or crepes for a fruity twist. Their vibrant colors and enticing aroma also make them a fantastic topping for cakes or tart bases, showing just how versatile this recipe can be.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though they might not last long), store your baked apple slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop even more, so you’ll find them just as tasty or even better the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze these apple slices by placing them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm your apple slices in a microwave-safe dish for about 30 to 45 seconds or pop them into a warm oven (around 300°F / 150°C) for 10 minutes until heated through. This retains the soft texture and brings back that delightful spiced aroma.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are recommended for their tartness and firm texture, you can experiment with Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn apples. Just keep in mind that softer apples may bake down faster and become softer.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeling helps the apple slices bake uniformly and creates a smoother texture, but if you enjoy the extra texture and nutrition from apple peels, feel free to leave them on. Just make sure to wash the apples thoroughly.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based butter or coconut oil, and you’ll have a vegan-friendly version of this delicious treat without compromising flavor.
Can I add other spices to this recipe?
Definitely. While cinnamon and nutmeg are classic, you might like to add a pinch of ground cloves, allspice, or ginger to give the apple slices a unique twist. Just add sparingly to keep the flavors balanced.
What is the best way to ensure the apple slices bake evenly?
Make sure to slice the apples evenly and arrange them in a single layer without overlapping on the baking sheet. Stirring once halfway through baking also helps them cook uniformly and develop that perfect caramelization.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about the simplicity and warmth of this Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon and Nutmeg Recipe. It’s an easy, versatile dish that fits any time of the day and always brings comfort to the table. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own little slice of cozy happiness.
Print
Baked Apple Slices with Cinnamon and Nutmeg Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Apple Slices recipe features tender, caramelized apples coated in a mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar, baked to perfection. It’s a warm, comforting dessert that can be enjoyed on its own or topped with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or chopped nuts for added indulgence.
Ingredients
Apple Mixture
- 4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Optional Toppings
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Chopped nuts
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Apple Mixture: In a large bowl, toss the peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples with melted butter, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the apple slices are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the coated apple slices in a single even layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring the slices do not overlap. This helps them bake evenly and caramelize properly.
- Bake the Apples: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir the apple slices halfway through the baking time to promote even cooking. The apples should become tender and slightly caramelized when done.
- Serve: Remove the baked apple slices from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm, optionally adding toppings such as vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can use either Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples depending on your preference for tartness or sweetness.
- Make sure to slice the apples thinly and evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Stirring halfway through baking helps the apples caramelize evenly without burning.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and skip optional dairy toppings.
- These baked apple slices are great served alone or atop pancakes, oatmeal, or yogurt for breakfast.
