Baked Apples with Maple Oat Filling
- 4 medium apples
- 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1 tsp cinnamon + a pinch of nutmeg and cloves
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp finely chopped crystallized ginger (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 5 tbsp melted butter (or coconut oil)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: a splash of bourbon
- Preheat your oven to 350ËšF.
- Using a sharp paring knife, carefully remove the apple core by twisting the knife. Create enough space for the filling by scooping out additional apple with a spoon.
- Combine oats, flour, spices, salt, ginger, and pecans. Stir in the butter, maple syrup, vanilla, and bourbon until well mixed.
- Fill each of the 4 apples with the mixture.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes (opt for a longer bake if you prefer softer apples; I like a bit of bite).
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel for the perfect finishing touch!