+GF + SFO
Baked apples, stuffed with oats, nuts, dried fruit and spice are such a treat. The apples get soft and almost creamy, which highlights their natural sweetness, and the spicy oat mixture adds a warm, nutty flavor and texture that makes every bite a delight.
This is an easy, guilt-free dessert that’s perfect for a busy week night and pretty enough to serve at a dinner party. —LM + AM
SERVES 8
8 medium to large apples
1 cup (81 g) GF rolled oats
1 cup (117 g) chopped walnuts
½ cup (76 g) dried unsweetened cranberries or raisins
2 tsp (5 g) ground cinnamon
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
⅛ tsp fine sea salt
2 tbsp (29 g) chilled vegan butter, cut into small pieces (use soy-free)
1 cup (240 ml) and 3 tbsp (45 ml) water, divided
TOPPING
Vegan vanilla ice cream
Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Wash and carefully core the apples with a paring knife. Scrape the bottom of the core out with a spoon, making sure that you don’t put a hole in the bottom of the apple.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, walnuts, cranberries, cinnamon, vanilla, salt, vegan butter and 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of the water. Use your hands to mix it together, pressing the butter into the oats until it becomes sticky.
Put the apples in a deep baking dish and pour the remaining 1 cup (240 ml) water into the pan. Liberally spoon the filling into the apples to the top, and cover the pan with foil.
Bake for about 1 hour or until fork tender. Serve warm and top with vanilla ice cream if desired.
*SEE PHOTO INSERT