Desserts > Baked Goods

Gravina-Style Baked Apples Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 large apples
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup apple cider

Special equipment needed:
- Baking dish
- Aluminum foil

Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the top of each apple and scoop out the core and seeds, leaving a hollow center.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped walnuts, raisins, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Stuff each apple with the nut mixture and place them in a baking dish.
5. Pour the melted butter and apple cider over the apples.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the filling is golden brown.
8. Serve warm.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 33g
Sodium: 200mg

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Pecans or almonds can be substituted for walnuts.
- Dried cranberries or cherries can be substituted for raisins.
- Maple syrup can be substituted for brown sugar.
- Olive oil can be substituted for butter.

Variations:
- Add a tablespoon of orange zest to the nut mixture for a citrusy twist.
- Top the baked apples with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the baked apples for a decadent dessert.

Tips and tricks:
- Use a melon baller or spoon to scoop out the core of the apples.
- To prevent the apples from tipping over in the baking dish, slice off a small piece from the bottom of each apple to create a flat surface.
- If the filling starts to brown too quickly, cover the apples with foil again and continue baking.

Storage instructions:
Store any leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat the baked apples, place them in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the baked apples on individual plates and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped nuts or cinnamon on top of the baked apples for added texture and flavor.

Pairings:
Serve the baked apples with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of hot apple cider for a cozy fall dessert.

Suggested side dishes:
Pair the baked apples with a side of roasted vegetables or a mixed green salad for a balanced meal.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the apples are not tender after the initial 30 minutes of baking, cover them with foil again and continue baking until they are soft.
- If the filling is too dry, add a splash of apple cider or water to the baking dish before covering with foil.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash the apples thoroughly before preparing them. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and discard any apples that have become mushy or discolored.

Food history:
Gravina-style baked apples are a traditional Italian dessert that originated in the town of Gravina in Puglia. The dish is typically made with local apples, nuts, and raisins, and is often served during the fall and winter months.

Flavor profiles:
The baked apples are sweet and nutty, with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg adding a cozy fall flavor.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the baked apples as a dessert or a sweet side dish with a fall meal.

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Taste: Sweet, Tart, Spicy, Cinnamon, Cinnamon-Y