As the chill of autumn settles in, my kitchen transforms into a warm haven filled with cozy aromas and festive cheer. One of my favorite traditions is whipping up these Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples with Velvety Vanilla Custard Sauce—an irresistible dessert that perfectly captures the essence of the season. Not only do these stuffed apples offer a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, but they also come together quickly, making them a fantastic option for holiday gatherings. Each bite is a comforting embrace, enhanced by the hearty texture of old-fashioned oats and warming spices. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping treat for Thanksgiving or a heartwarming dessert for Christmas, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite. Curious about the secret to crafting this delightful indulgence? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples Irresistible?
Warm, Cozy Indulgence: These Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples evoke the spirit of the season with their comforting aroma and flavors, making them a staple for holiday gatherings.
Quick and Easy: In just a few simple steps, you can prepare a festive dessert that will wow your guests—perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Hearty and Wholesome: Packed with oats and fresh apples, this treat offers a twist on traditional sweets, providing fiber that makes every bite more satisfying.
Customizable Delight: Whether you prefer subtle pumpkin spice or a drizzle of maple syrup, feel free to experiment with variations for a personalized touch.
Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of soft, warm apples filled with a chewy oat mixture and a velvety custard sauce ensures that these stuffed apples will be a hit with everyone around the table!
Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful recipe, and for more festive ideas, check out these delicious fall recipes.
Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples Ingredients
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For the Apples
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Large Baking Apples – Opt for Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a beautifully balanced flavor.
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For the Oat Filling
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Old-Fashioned Oats – This hearty base gives the filling a delightful texture; avoid instant oats for the best results.
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Brown Sugar – Enhance the filling’s sweetness and caramel notes; coconut sugar is a great alternative if desired.
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Granulated Sugar – Use to taste for additional sweetness; adjust based on your preference.
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Ground Cinnamon – The aromatic star of this recipe; feel free to add more for an extra warming touch.
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Ground Nutmeg – Offers a warm, aromatic depth; can be omitted if not available.
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Salt – Important for flavor enhancement; sea salt is recommended for the best taste.
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Salted Butter – Adds richness to the filling; substitute with unsalted butter and adjust salt accordingly.
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For the Custard Sauce
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Vanilla Extract – Vital for a fragrant and flavorful custard; pure extract is always best.
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Milk – Use whole or your milk of choice for a creamy texture; can try plant-based options for a dairy-free version.
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Egg Yolks – Essential for thickening the custard to velvety perfection; do not skip this ingredient.
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Sugar – Sweetens the sauce; adjust to taste depending on your preference.
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s embrace the delightful journey of creating these Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples
Step 1: Prepare Apples
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a sharp knife or an apple corer to carefully core the large baking apples, ensuring to leave the bottom intact to hold the filling. Once cored, place the apples upright in a baking dish and set aside, ready for their sweet stuffing.
Step 2: Make Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Melt the salted butter in a small microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop, then pour it into the oat mixture. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined, ensuring the oats are well coated with the buttery goodness.
Step 3: Stuff Apples
Generously spoon the prepared oat filling into each cored apple, packing it down gently to maximize the filling. Don’t be shy—fill them up to the top! This delicious mixture will expand slightly during baking, creating a delightful contrast of textures in the Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples.
Step 4: Bake
Carefully pour about an inch of water into the bottom of the baking dish to help steam the apples during cooking. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for approximately 50 minutes, or until the apples are tender and easily pierced with a fork but not mushy.
Step 5: Make Custard Sauce
While the apples are baking, prepare the Velvety Vanilla Custard Sauce. In a saucepan, combine milk, vanilla extract, sugar, and egg yolks, whisking until well blended. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat to let it cool slightly, thickening further as it cools.
Step 6: Serve
Once the Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples are done baking, carefully remove them from the oven. Let them cool for a few moments before serving. Drizzle the luscious vanilla custard sauce over the warm stuffed apples to create a delightful presentation, and savor each comforting bite of this festive dessert.
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples
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Pick the Right Apples: Choose large baking apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to ensure they hold up well during baking and provide a perfect sweet-tart balance.
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Avoid Instant Oats: Stick with old-fashioned oats for a chewy texture in your filling—instant oats can make the mixture too mushy.
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Don’t Overstuff: Fill the apples generously, but avoid overflowing, as the filling expands during baking, which can lead to a messy situation.
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Test for Doneness: Gently pierce the apples with a fork towards the end of baking; they should be tender but not overly soft to ensure your Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples hold their shape.
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Custard Cooling: If making the Vanilla Custard Sauce ahead, let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent it from becoming grainy.
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Taste Adjustments: Feel free to tweak the spices and sweetness level based on personal preference; cinnamon lovers might want to increase the amount for a warmer flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples
Fridge: Store leftover Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while preserving their delightful flavors.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stuffed apples before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake the stuffed apples directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes, or until heated through. Add more custard sauce if you like!
Custard Sauce: The Vanilla Custard Sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 1-2 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples
As the sweet aroma of baked cinnamon and apples fills your kitchen, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside this cozy holiday treat.
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Warm Vanilla Custard: This velvety sauce drizzled over the apples enhances their sweetness and adds creaminess to each bite. It transforms a simple dessert into a delightful experience.
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Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: Pairing warm stuffed apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast of temperatures, enriching the flavors and textures of the dessert.
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Spiced Tea: A warm cup of spiced tea complements the apple and cinnamon notes while providing a cozy drink option that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel over the stuffed apples adds a rich, buttery sweetness that elevates the dessert experience.
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Nutty Granola: Sprinkling crunchy granola over the warm apples adds a delightful textural contrast and can enhance the dish with extra flavors of toasted oats and nuts.
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Candied Pecans: For a nutty crunch, serve candied pecans on the side. Their sweetness balances the tartness of the apples, making for a delightful bite.
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Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of maple syrup over the stuffed apples can enhance their natural sweetness and add a hint of earthy flavor, perfect for the fall season.
These pairing ideas will ensure your Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples shine as the centerpiece of your festive gatherings, leaving your guests feeling warm and content.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples are a fantastic choice for busy cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the oat filling up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. If you want to go even further, you can core the apples a day in advance and refrigerate them (to prevent browning, sprinkle a little lemon juice inside each apple). When you’re ready to bake, simply stuff the apples with the filling, follow the baking instructions, and drizzle with your velvety vanilla custard sauce for a dish that feels freshly made, even when prepared ahead. Enjoy the convenience and warmth that these apples bring to your holiday gatherings!
Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples: Variations to Try
Feel free to spark your creativity and customize your dessert experience with these enticing variations!
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Pear Twist: Substitute pears for apples for a sweeter, softer bite that harmonizes beautifully with the custard.
Pears add a delicate touch to this recipe, making it a lovely alternative for those looking to switch things up! -
Pumpkin Spice: Swap out cinnamon for pumpkin spice to capture the essence of fall in every bite.
This warm blend can transform the filling into a cozy, inviting hug, perfect for chilly evenings! -
Maple Sweetness: Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a unique, rich flavor and a hint of caramel.
The natural sweetness from maple syrup will elevate your stuffed apples, creating a delightful surprise for your taste buds! -
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the oat filling for a delightful crunch and extra nutrition.
The contrast between the soft apples and crunchy nuts adds an enjoyable layer of texture that everyone will love! -
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute coconut milk for regular milk in the custard sauce for a plant-based treat.
Coconut milk introduces a lovely tropical note while maintaining the creaminess that makes custard irresistible! -
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or chili powder into the oat filling for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness.
This unexpected twist can awaken your palate, making every bite even more memorable! -
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free oats, perfect for those following a gluten-free lifestyle.
Enjoy the same delightful flavors and textures without sacrificing your dietary needs! -
Fruit Fusion: Mix in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins into the filling for added sweetness and chewiness.
The vibrant colors and flavors of dried fruits make this dish festive and visually appealing for holiday gatherings!
For more inspiration in your kitchen, explore these delicious fall recipes to make your cozy cooking sessions even more delightful!
Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples?
Absolutely! I recommend using large baking apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. They provide a lovely balance of sweetness and tartness while maintaining their structure during baking, which is essential for a perfect stuffed apple.
How should I store leftover Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re completely cool before sealing them up. This way, they’ll stay fresh and delicious, ready for a cozy treat!
Can I freeze Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples?
Yes, you can! For freezing, I often wrap each stuffed apple tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until heated through.
What if my custard sauce turns out grainy?
To avoid a grainy texture in your vanilla custard sauce, be sure to let it cool at room temperature before refrigerating. If it does become grainy, you can gently reheat it while whisking continuously until smooth. Alternatively, you could strain the sauce through a fine mesh sieve to remove any lumps.
Can I make adjustments for dietary restrictions?
Very! If you have dietary considerations, you can easily adjust the recipe. For a dairy-free option, substitute milk with a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter substitute. Additionally, if anyone has a nut allergy, just double-check your ingredients’ labels to ensure they’re nut-free.
What should I do if my apples are overflowing during baking?
If you notice that the filling is overflowing from the apples as they bake, it often helps to pack the filling a little less tightly next time. If it happens anyway, simply keep a baking sheet underneath the apples to catch any delicious drips and avoid a messy oven cleanup!
Cinnamon Oatmeal Stuffed Apples for Cozy Holiday Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Core the large baking apples carefully, leaving the bottom intact.
- In a mixing bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Melt butter and add it to the mixture, stirring until combined.
- Stuff the cored apples with the oat filling, packing it down gently.
- Pour water into the bottom of the baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for approximately 50 minutes until tender.
- Combine milk, vanilla, sugar, and egg yolks in a saucepan, cook over low heat, whisking until thickened, about 10-15 minutes.
- After baking, drizzle the vanilla custard sauce over the apples before serving warm.
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