There’s something inherently comforting in a dessert that marries the natural sweetness of fruit with a whisper of savory cheese and a pop of tartness. These baked apples with feta, honey, and cranberries transform ordinary apples into a warm, spiced delight that feels both rustic and elegant. Each apple becomes a vessel for creamy crumbled feta that melts slightly against the warm fruit, while juicy dried cranberries punctuate every bite with bright, tangy notes. A gentle dusting of cinnamon and nutmeg infuses the kitchen with seasonal warmth, and a drizzle of golden honey brings everything together in a glossy, sweet embrace. Savor warm, spiced baked apples brimming with feta, honey, and tart cranberries for a sweet twist on a classic treat that’s as gorgeous to look at as it is to taste.
What makes this recipe shine is its beginner-friendly approach: from coring the apples to layering in the filling, every step is approachable yet yields a show-stopping result. With just 15 minutes of prep, 40 minutes in the oven, and a brief 10-minute rest, you’ll have a cozy dessert or breakfast ready to enjoy before you know it. At around 210 calories per stuffed apple, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that doubles as a healthy snack. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting brunch, or craving something sweet after dinner, this dish fits seamlessly into any occasion. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable—swap the feta for goat cheese, or try pecans instead of walnuts for a new twist each time you bake.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BAKED APPLES WITH FETA HONEY AND CRANBERRIES
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, from the base of crisp apples to the sweet-savory filling that takes center stage. Choosing high-quality produce and pantry staples ensures each bite delivers balanced flavors and delightful textures. Here’s what you need and why it matters:
- Apples
Opt for firm, flavorful varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. Their natural sweetness and sturdy texture hold up beautifully in the oven and provide the perfect vessel for the filling.
- Feta cheese
Crumbled feta introduces a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet apple. Its slightly salty punch balances the honey and cranberries, creating a nuanced flavor profile.
- Dried cranberries
These tart gems burst with chewy sweetness against the warm apple flesh. They add bright pops of color and lively acidity to the mix.
- Honey
A natural sweetener that glazes the top of each apple and seeps into the filling, honey adds golden depth and helps caramelize the fruit.
- Cinnamon
Ground cinnamon brings cozy, warming notes that complement both the fruit and cheese. It’s a fall favorite that ties every flavor together.
- Nutmeg
Just a hint of nutmeg elevates the spice blend, introducing subtle woodsy undertones that enrich the overall aroma.
- Unsalted butter
Small pats of butter melt into the apples, lending a rich, silky finish and helping the filling bake up soft and luscious.
- Walnuts or pecans (optional)
Chopped nuts add a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor. They’re completely optional but highly recommended for extra texture.
- Lemon juice (optional)
A quick rub of lemon juice prevents the exposed apple flesh from browning, ensuring each stuffed apple looks as inviting as it tastes.
HOW TO MAKE BAKED APPLES WITH FETA HONEY AND CRANBERRIES
Follow these steps to transform simple apples into a stunning baked dessert or breakfast. The process is straightforward, and you’ll love how the aroma fills your home as the oven works its magic.
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Allowing the oven to reach the correct temperature before baking ensures even cooking and helps the sugars in the honey and apples caramelize properly.
2. Core the apples by slicing off the tops and removing the core down to the bottom without cutting through. This creates a snug cavity for the filling. If you’re worried about browning, gently rub the exposed flesh with lemon juice.
3. Combine the filling by tossing crumbled feta, dried cranberries, cinnamon, nutmeg, and chopped walnuts or pecans (if using) in a small bowl. Stir until everything is evenly distributed and fragrant.
4. Stuff each apple with the feta-cranberry mixture, pressing down lightly to pack as much filling as possible. The goal is a generous, overflowing nest of flavors in every apple.
5. Arrange the apples upright in a baking dish, making sure none tip over. A snug fit helps them cook evenly and keeps the filling from spilling out.
6. Dot with butter by placing small pieces of unsalted butter on top of each stuffed apple. As it melts, it will mingle with the honey and seep into the fruit.
7. Drizzle honey over each apple, allowing it to cascade down the sides and pool slightly in the filling, adding sweetness and encouraging caramelization.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the apples are tender but still hold their shape. The foil traps steam, cooking the apples through without drying out the filling.
9. Uncover and caramelize by removing the foil and returning the dish to the oven for an additional 5–10 minutes. This step produces lightly browned, golden tops that are irresistible.
10. Rest before serving by letting the baked apples cool for about 5–10 minutes outside the oven. Resting helps the filling set slightly, making each apple easier to plate and enjoy.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BAKED APPLES WITH FETA HONEY AND CRANBERRIES
These stuffed apples are delicious straight from the oven, but a thoughtful presentation and complementary accompaniments can turn them into a truly memorable treat. Whether you’re serving at a casual brunch or an intimate dinner, these suggestions will help you showcase your creation beautifully.
- With vanilla ice cream
A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream alongside a warm apple creates a classic hot-and-cold contrast. The melting cream blends with the honey and cheese for an extra-luxurious bite.
- Drizzled with whipped cream
Pipe or dollop a cloud of fresh whipped cream on top for a light, airy finish. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on the cream to echo the spices in the apple.
- Paired with a dollop of Greek yogurt
For a healthier twist, add a scoop of plain or honey-sweetened Greek yogurt. The tangy creaminess complements the feta and cranberries perfectly.
- Garnished with fresh herbs
Sprinkle finely chopped mint or rosemary on the plate for an unexpected burst of color and aroma. Herbs brighten the dish and highlight its savory-sweet balance.
HOW TO STORE BAKED APPLES WITH FETA HONEY AND CRANBERRIES
Once your baked apples have cooled, proper storage will keep them tasting fresh and delicious for days. Whether you want to enjoy leftovers or prepare components in advance, follow these tips to maintain texture and flavor.
Refrigeration is ideal for preserving both the apple’s tenderness and the vibrant filling. Store the baked apples in an airtight container, layering parchment paper between them if stacking is necessary. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3–4 days without losing their moisture or texture.
- Glass containers with tight-sealing lids
Using glass rather than plastic helps prevent lingering odors and keeps the apples tasting clean. Label each container with the date.
- Wrap with plastic film
If you only have a shallow dish, tightly wrap it in plastic film to lock in moisture. This prevents the apple flesh from drying out.
- Store fillings separately
For make-ahead convenience, prepare the feta-cranberry mixture in advance and refrigerate it in a sealed jar. Core and prep the apples on the day you plan to bake for optimal freshness.
- Freezing for longer storage
While texture may soften slightly, each stuffed apple can be individually wrapped in freezer-safe film and frozen for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in the oven.
CONCLUSION
These baked apples with feta, honey, and cranberries bring together the best of sweet and savory in a cozy, approachable dish any home cook can master. From the crisp bite of a Honeycrisp apple to the rich tang of feta melting into every crevice, each component harmonizes to create a dessert or breakfast that feels gourmet yet remains incredibly simple. You’ve learned how to prep and bake these beauties in under an hour, explored serving ideas like vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt, and discovered storage tips that let you enjoy leftovers or prep ahead. Feel free to print and save this article for reference; pin it on your kitchen board or tuck a printed copy into your recipe binder so you’ll have it ready whenever you’re craving a warm, spiced treat.
Below you’ll also find a helpful FAQ section to address common questions about ingredient swaps, serving variations, and troubleshooting. If you try this recipe, please leave a comment or share your feedback—you might have discovered your own signature twist or perfected a personal garnish. Questions about macronutrients, timing adjustments, or flavor pairings? Let me know! Your insights and queries not only help refine this recipe but also guide fellow home cooks on their own culinary adventures. Happy baking, and may every bite be as satisfying as the first.
Baked Apples with Feta Honey and Cranberries
Description
Experience a delightful fusion of sweet and savory with every bite of these perfectly baked apples. They're filled with creamy feta, tart cranberries, and a hint of honey, offering a cozy dish that's great any time of the day.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Core the apples, creating a cavity in the center but leaving the bottom intact to hold the filling. If desired, rub the exposed apple flesh with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning.
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In a small bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, cinnamon, nutmeg, and walnuts or pecans if using.
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Stuff each apple with the feta-cranberry mixture, pressing it down slightly to fit as much as possible.
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Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish, ensuring they remain upright.
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Cut the unsalted butter into small pieces and place a few pieces on top of each apple.
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Drizzle honey over the apples, letting it seep into the filling.
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Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the apples are tender but still hold their shape.
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Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the tops to caramelize lightly.
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Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the apples cool slightly before serving.
Note
- These baked apples are perfect for a quick dessert or breakfast treat.
- For added sweetness, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
- This recipe can be easily doubled or halved, depending on the number of servings needed.
