Honey Cinnamon Baked Apples

Name: Honey Cinnamon Baked Apples
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium-sized apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith); 1/4 cup honey; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1/4 cup raisins (optional)

Highlighted under: Pastry Dreams

I absolutely love making Honey Cinnamon Baked Apples during the fall season. The aroma of warm cinnamon and honey fills my kitchen, instantly creating a cozy atmosphere. Each bite of these baked apples is a delightful combination of soft fruit and a sweet, sticky glaze that makes for an irresistible dessert. Plus, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them the perfect treat for both family and guests. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed as is, they’re comfort food at its finest.

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:19:17.937Z

Creating Honey Cinnamon Baked Apples became a weekend tradition in my home. I discovered that by carefully selecting the right variety of apples, I could achieve the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. Honey and cinnamon work beautifully together, turning these humble fruits into a gourmet dessert that always impresses. I usually serve them warm, and they pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, turning a simple treat into an indulgent experience.

One trick I learned is to slice a shallow ‘X’ at the top of each apple before baking, allowing the steam to escape and the honey-sugar mixture to seep in. This method helps to keep the apples tender while intensifying the flavors. You can also experiment with adding nuts or raisins for extra texture. I can’t recommend these baked apples enough; they never fail to bring smiles all around!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Warm, comforting flavors that evoke the essence of fall
Naturally sweetened with honey for a healthier twist
Simple preparation makes it a perfect quick dessert

Enhancing Your Baked Apples

The combination of honey and cinnamon is essential in this recipe, not only for flavor but also for texture. Honey acts as a natural sweetener and helps create a sticky glaze that clings beautifully to the apples, making each bite a perfect blend of soft fruit and sweet syrup. You can experiment with different varieties of honey, such as clover or wildflower, to see how they subtly change the flavor profile.

Consider adding an extra layer of flavor by incorporating spices like nutmeg or allspice into the honey-cinnamon mixture. Just a pinch can elevate the warm, autumnal taste experience. If you’d like a little heat, a dash of cayenne pepper can add an unexpected kick that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the apples.

Choosing the Right Apples

Selecting the right apple variety is key to your Honey Cinnamon Baked Apples. Honeycrisp apples are highly recommended for their balance of sweetness and tartness, ensuring each bite is full of flavor. Granny Smith apples, with their tart profile, can also be used, but they may require a touch more honey to balance their acidity. When selecting apples, look for ones that are firm and free from blemishes, which will hold their shape during baking.

If you prefer a softer texture, consider using apples like Fuji or Gala. These will become tender more quickly than Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. Just keep an eye on them as they bake, adjusting the time if they start to soften too much, typically around 20 to 25 minutes.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Honey Cinnamon Baked Apples:

Ingredients

4 medium-sized apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
1/4 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Honey Cinnamon Baked Apples:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish by greasing it with a little butter.

Prepare the Apples

Core each apple, creating a well in the center. Optionally, slice a shallow 'X' in the top of each apple to help steam escape.

Mix Honey and Cinnamon

In a small bowl, mix together the honey and ground cinnamon until well combined.

Fill the Apples

Place the apples in the prepared baking dish and fill the center of each apple with the honey-cinnamon mixture. Dot with butter and sprinkle with nuts and raisins if using.

Bake

Bake the apples in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until they are tender and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try drizzling the baked apples with caramel sauce before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you have leftover baked apples, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. The flavors will continue to develop, making them even more delicious upon reheating.

For a make-ahead option, the apples can be prepared up to a day in advance. Core and fill them with the honey-cinnamon mixture, but wait to dot with butter until just before baking. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re straight from the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

These baked apples shine on their own, but they can be even better when paired with complementary ingredients. Serve them warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a contrast in temperature and texture. A sprinkle of toasted nuts on top can add a satisfying crunch that balances the softness of the fruit.

For a festive touch, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving. This not only enhances the sweetness but also adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs beautifully with the honey and cinnamon. Consider adding a pinch of sea salt to elevate the overall flavor experience if you love that sweet-salty combination.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of apple for this recipe?

While you can experiment with different apple varieties, those with a balance of sweetness and tartness, like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, work best.

→ How can I make these apples healthier?

You can reduce the amount of honey, or substitute with a natural sweetener like maple syrup, and skip adding nuts or raisins.

→ Can these be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the apples and fill them with the mixture, then refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with baked apples?

They are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence.