Desserts > Baked Goods > Italian Apples

Canestrato and Honey Baked Apples Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 medium-sized apples
- 1/2 cup of honey
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of grated Canestrato cheese
- 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup of dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon of cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon of butter

Special equipment needed:
- Baking dish
- Aluminum foil

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cut off the top of each apple and use a spoon to scoop out the core and seeds, creating a hollow space in the center of each apple.

3. In a small bowl, mix together the honey, water, and cinnamon.

4. Place the apples in a baking dish and pour the honey mixture over them.

5. Top each apple with a tablespoon of butter.

6. Bake the apples for 20 minutes.

7. Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the grated Canestrato cheese, chopped walnuts, and dried cranberries over the top of each apple.

8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and return it to the oven.

9. Bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the apples are tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.

10. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

11. Serve the Canestrato and Honey Baked Apples warm.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 280
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Protein: 5g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 39g
Sodium: 80mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Canestrato cheese can be substituted with Parmesan cheese or Pecorino Romano cheese.
- Walnuts can be substituted with pecans or almonds.
- Dried cranberries can be substituted with raisins or chopped dried apricots.

Variations:
- Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the honey mixture for a tangy flavor.
- Use brown sugar instead of honey for a sweeter taste.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a spicier flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Choose apples that are firm and not too ripe.
- If the honey mixture is too thick, add more water to thin it out.
- If the cheese is not melting, place the baking dish under the broiler for a few minutes.

Storage instructions:
Leftover Canestrato and Honey Baked Apples can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the apples in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the Canestrato and Honey Baked Apples on a platter with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey.

Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Pairings:
Pair with a glass of white wine or a cup of hot tea.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the apples are not tender after baking, cover them with aluminum foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- If the cheese is burning, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and continue baking.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash the apples thoroughly before using them. Store leftover apples in the refrigerator and discard any leftovers that have been sitting at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Food history:
Baked apples have been a popular dessert for centuries, dating back to medieval times. The addition of cheese and honey is a modern twist on this classic dish.

Flavor profiles:
The Canestrato and Honey Baked Apples are sweet, tangy, and savory with a hint of cinnamon.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the Canestrato and Honey Baked Apples as a dessert or a sweet snack.

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Taste: Sweet, Tangy, Spicy, Caramelized