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Baked Apples with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries Recipe

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4.5 from 18 reviews

These baked apples stuffed with feta cheese, dried cranberries, and a touch of honey create a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Cinnamon and vanilla add warmth, while fresh mint offers a refreshing garnish. This delightful dessert is easy to prepare and baked to tender, golden perfection.

Ingredients

Apples

  • 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Gala)

Filling

  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings

  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Core the apples: Carefully core each apple, making sure to leave about ½ inch intact at the bottom so the filling does not leak out during baking.
  3. Mix the filling: In a small bowl, combine the crumbled feta cheese, dried cranberries, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is evenly blended.
  4. Stuff the apples: Place the cored apples in the prepared baking dish and gently press the feta mixture into the hollowed cores, filling each apple.
  5. Add honey and butter: Drizzle honey evenly over each stuffed apple, then place a small pat of unsalted butter on top of each one to add richness and aid in browning.
  6. Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with foil to keep moisture in and bake the apples for 30 minutes, or until they become tender.
  7. Brown and finish: Remove the foil carefully and bake for another 10 minutes, allowing the tops to turn a lovely golden color.
  8. Garnish and serve: Let the baked apples cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh mint if desired and serve warm for the best flavor and texture experience.

Notes

  • Use firm yet ripe apples like Honeycrisp or Gala to ensure they hold their shape when baked.
  • If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute feta with a vegan cheese alternative.
  • Toasting the cranberries lightly before mixing can enhance their flavor.
  • Adjust honey quantity to taste if you prefer a sweeter or less sweet dish.
  • Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or Greek yogurt for an indulgent dessert variation.