Baked apples with spiced pecans recipe

Nutritional Benefits

1. Apples are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling fuller for longer.
2. Pecans are packed with healthy fats, including monounsaturated fats that are beneficial for heart health.
3. Cinnamon has antioxidant properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
4. Honey provides natural sweetness and contains antioxidants.
5. Vanilla extract adds flavor without adding calories or fat.

Ingredients

1. 4 apples
2. 1 cup pecans
3. 2 tablespoons honey
4. 1 teaspoon cinnamon
5. 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Processing Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Core the apples and make a small incision around the middle to prevent them from bursting during baking.
3. In a bowl, mix together the pecans, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
4. Stuff each apple with the pecan mixture, pressing it firmly into the cavity.
5. Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the pecans are golden brown.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Recommendations

- Serve the baked apples warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
- You can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired.
- Drizzle some caramel sauce over the apples before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Make sure to choose ripe, firm apples for the best results.
- If you prefer a softer texture, you can bake the apples for a few extra minutes.
- Experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, to customize the flavor of the pecan mixture.
- To make the recipe vegan-friendly, you can use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Don't forget to garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar for an attractive presentation.

Shopping List

1. 4 apples
2. 1 cup pecans
3. 2 tablespoons honey
4. 1 teaspoon cinnamon
5. 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract