- Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great choices)
- Sweet Potatoes
- Brown Sugar
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Allspice
- Vanilla Extract
- Butter
- Maple Syrup (optional, for a richer flavor)
- Lemon Juice
- Ground Ginger
- Salt
Steps
### Baked Apples with Sweet Potato Stuffing: A Delicious Fall Dish
Fall is the perfect season to enjoy warm, comforting dishes like baked apples with sweet potato stuffing! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the creamy goodness of mashed sweet potatoes, creating a delightful and healthy dessert or snack. Here’s how you can make this dish:
#### Ingredients:
- 4 large ripe apples
- 1 medium-sized sweet potato (about 5 oz)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
#### Step-by-Step Guide:
1. **Preheat Your Oven:**
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures the apples cook evenly and prevents burning.
2. **Prepare the Apples:**
- Wash the apples thoroughly under cold water.
- Use a small spoon or melon baller to carefully remove the core from each apple, making sure not to cut too deep into the sides.
3. **Roast the Sweet Potatoes:**
- Peel and chop the sweet potato into small cubes (about 1/2-inch).
- Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of butter, sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and vanilla extract. Toss until evenly coated.
4. **Bake the Sweet Potatoes:**
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. **Make the Stuffing Mixture:**
- While the sweet potatoes are roasting, combine any remaining butter and brown sugar in a small bowl.
- Add chopped walnuts (if using) to the mixture for added texture and flavor.
6. **Assemble the Apples:**
- Once the sweet potatoes are done, mash them slightly with a fork or potato masher until they have a creamy consistency but still hold their shape.
- Fill each hollowed apple with the mashed sweet potato mixture, pressing down gently to compact it inside.
7. **Bake the Apples:**
- Place the stuffed apples back into the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
- If you find the tops of your apples browning too quickly, cover them loosely with foil.
8. **Serve Immediately:**
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Sprinkle any remaining butter mixture over the top for an extra touch of flavor.
#### Tips:
- For a sweeter taste, add more brown sugar or drizzle some honey on top.
- If you prefer a crispier exterior, broil the apples under the oven’s heat source for 2-3 minutes after baking them in the main oven.
- To make this dish vegan, replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar.
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- Baked Apples
- Sweet Potato Stuffing
- Fall Dessert
- Easy Apple Recipe
- Comfort Food
- Healthy Snack
Enjoy your homemade baked apples with sweet potato stuffing, perfect for any cozy fall evening!