"Cinnamon Apple Delight: Baked with Red Hots"

Craving a Warm, Spicy Treat? Try Baked Cinnamon Apples with Red Hots!

As the weather turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, there's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of cinnamon wafting through the air. This classic autumnal spice takes center stage in our delectable recipe for Baked Cinnamon Apples with Red Hots, a delightful dessert that's as easy to prepare as it is irresistible.

Why Baked Cinnamon Apples with Red Hots?

This simple yet impressive dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a healthier alternative to traditional apple desserts. By baking the apples instead of frying them, we significantly reduce the fat content while still delivering a rich, indulgent experience. The addition of Red Hots candies adds a unique, spicy twist that will have your taste buds dancing.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 6 medium-sized apples (we recommend using a sweet-tart variety like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady)
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup Red Hots candies, coarsely chopped
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or divide the mixture evenly among six 6-ounce ramekins.

Core and Slice the Apples

Using an apple corer or melon baller, remove the cores from the apples. Cut each apple into thin slices, about 1/4-inch thick. You should aim for about 16 slices per apple.

Create the Spice Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

Assemble the Apples

Arrange the apple slices in the prepared baking dish or ramekins, overlapping them slightly. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the apples, ensuring each slice is well coated. Pour the water into the dish or ramekins, and gently shake to distribute it evenly.

Add the Red Hots

Sprinkle the chopped Red Hots candies over the apples. If using nuts, add them now as well.

Bake

Bake the apples for 35-40 minutes, or until they're tender and lightly browned. If you'd like a bit more caramelization, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Serve

Allow the apples to cool for a few minutes before serving. They're delicious on their own, but you can also top them with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of sweetness.

Nutritional Information

This recipe makes six servings. Enjoy!